Psychological Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Health Workers in Morocco: Results of a Cross Sectional Survey .

Abstract

Background : This study aims to assess the psychological impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, in particular stress, depression, and Post-traumatic disorder, among health care workers in Oujda. Methods:We conducted a survey among 85 health care workers by using a google form questionnaire, during three months (from to). We assessed the work condition, fears, negative emotions, relationships, lifestyle, and coping of medical staff. We also evaluated stress, depression, and post- traumatic stress disorder through the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), The World Health Organization- Five Well-Being Index (WHO-5), and Primary Care-Post Traumatic Disorder. Results: 65.8% work in front-line, and did between 4 to 15 shifts per month. 71.1% are in fear of COVID-19 infection. 97.6% are afraid to transmit the virus to relatives. More than two-thirds of responders describe negative feelings and exhaustion. 49.4% had a low level of well-being and probably depressed. 67% presented high perceived stress. Anxiety and depression were associated with fears, negative feelings, previous psychiatric disorder, poor sleep, and lack of family support. Conclusion: Our current study showed the high prevalence of depression and perceived stress among medical staff, hence the need to accompany and support all health workers. Keywords: COVID -19 impact; pandemic, Depression; Health care workers; Morocco. Perceived stress; style life.