ABSTRACT
Background: Given the continuing COVID-19 pandemic and the associated prevention and control measures implemented the psychological burden brought by the pandemic on the citizens is expected to increase. This study aimed to explore the predictors of depressive symptoms among Hong Kong people during the epidemic, as well as factors that could potentially alleviate the negative effects of the epidemic. Methods: A longitudinal prospective survey study was conducted with the general population aged 18 and above in Hong Kong. The third wave follow-up survey (December 2021 to January 2022) was used for a cross-sectional analysis (n= 803). Logistic and linear regression were performed to test the predictors and moderating effects respectively. Results: With minimized confounding effects of demographic variables, higher levels of concern of infection, experience with COVID-19 infection and previous epidemics, hassles, and trust in authority increased the odds of being depressive, while a higher level of trust in medical professionals reduced the odds of depression. Moreover, greater trust in medical professionals, as a moderator, lessened the positive associations between the levels of depression and hassles, concern about infection. Conclusions: Even though the threats of COVID-19 seem to have lowered, this study shows that a few factors associated with the pandemic continue to threaten people’s mental health. However, developing greater trust in medical experts may be an effective way to relieve psychological burden.