Research on the frequency of post-traumatic stress disorder in healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

Background: It is highly probable that the COVID-19 outbreak, one of the most severe pandemics to which humanity has been exposed, will promote post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). PTSD is a serious mental illness that decreases quality of life and functionality of healthcare workers (HCWs) during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Aims: This study aims to research the frequency of PTSD in HCWs who are working in a central pandemic hospital, during the COVID-19 outbreak.

Methods: In total, 300 HCWs were included in the study. Diagnosis of PTSD was made according to DSM-5 diagnostic criteria, and the severity of PTSD symptoms was evaluated using the PTSD Checklist - Civilian Version Scale.

Results: In total, 21.6% (n = 65) of the HCWs were diagnosed with PTSD, 18.3% of them were female (n = 55) and 3.3% were male (n = 10) participants. The mean PCL-C score of participants diagnosed with PTSD was found to be 60.38 ± 4.81. No statistically significant difference was found between profession groups diagnosed with PTSD.

Conclusions: HCWs who are working directly with COVID-19 patients have significantly higher levels of PTSD. PTSD can lead to severe negative consequences such as lower quality of life and loss of workforce and productivity, if it is not diagnosed and treated early. Therefore, it should become a routine to continuously monitor and establish early targeted mental health interventions.

Keywords: COVID-19; Healthcare workers; Post-traumatic stress disorder.