Knowing the Psychological Risks of Anti-epidemic Rescue Teams for COVID-19 by Simplified Risk Probability Scale (preprint)

ABSTRACT

Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic has posed significant challenges to anti-epidemic rescue teams composed ofnon-medical professionals, such as security guards and volunteers. Our study aims to address how the Simplified Risk Probability Scale (SRPS), such as the Self-Assessed Anxiety Scale (SAS) and the Self-Assessed Depression Scale (SDS), can be used to assess the psychological risks of anti-epidemic rescue teams when facing COVID-19 and how to implement appropriate interventions for high-risk groups.  Methods: The study employed a cross-sectional study and collected data through an online survey. Participants were recruited through convenience sampling and were provided with informed consent. The survey included a COVID-19 self-made survey scale, as well as the SAS and SDS questionnaires to assess depression and anxiety symptoms. The study followed ethical standards and included 566 respondents from Lanzhou, China.  Results: 43.8% of anti-epidemic rescue team members experienced depression symptoms, while 33.3% experienced anxiety. The severity of depression and anxiety symptoms was positively correlated with the duration of work and the frequency of contact with COVID-19 patients. Female participants and those with lower education levels were more likely to experience thesesymptoms.  Conclusions: Our research has found that the psychological risks of rescue teams when facing COVID-19 come from anxiety and depression, and compelling psychological intervention can significantly reduce these risks. Overall, this study provides important insights into the psychological impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on anti-epidemic rescue teams and underscores the need for ongoing support and resources to protect the mental health of these essential workers.