Depression, anxiety, and stress among private health care practitioners in delhi ncr region during covid-19 pandemic: A cross-sectional study

ABSTRACT

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is a globally prevalent public health pandemic due to a viral COVID-19 infection. This cross-sectional observational study aimed at evaluating the depression, anxiety, and stress levels among private health care practitioners in the Delhi NCR region during the COVID-19 pandemic. The questionnaire included sociodemographic characteristics and Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS)-21. Dentists exhibited the highest level of depression (83.89%), anxiety (89.3%), and stress (89.95%), followed by medical personnel and AYUSH workers. Most of the study cohort showed moderate levels of DASS scale. Fear of contracting the infection and fear of infection transmission to family/friends were the most common causes of mental distress. COVID-19 pandemic has imparted adverse effects on the mental health status of health professionals. The risk factors should be acknowledged, and necessary interventions should be implemented to maintain psychological well-being.