Psychological Impact of Covid-19 among Healthcare Workers in Cameroon

Abstract

Background: Since December 2019, the world has been experiencing the Covid-19 pandemic which has claimed several thousands of lives worldwide. The healthcare workers are among the population at high risk. Evaluating the psychological impact of the Covid-19 on the mental health of healthcare workers in Cameroon is very crucial to maintain their psychological well-being, and ensure good monitoring and follow up of patients. Methods: This study was an online survey in which electronic questionnaires were made available to healthcare workers through email and social media. The survey involved the risk perception towards Covid-19, psychological distressand the motivation of healthcare workers. The level of psychological distress was measured using the 12-item generalised health questionnaire. Data was analysed in SPSS version 25. Results: A majority of the healthcare workers (99.3%) perceived Covid-19 as a major public health problem with 74.9% feeling unsaved working during the pandemic and 21% feeling as abandoning their job. Psychological distress was moderate in 63% and high in 16% of the Healthcare workers and did not vary with sociodemographic characteristics. Healthcare workers directly involved in the Covid-19 unit had a significantly higher psychological distress score compare to those not directly involved (p = 0.009). The motivation to carry out their duty (74.2%), respect of the hypocrate oath (60.9%) and serving the nation (50.2%) were the main reasons motivating the healthcare workers to keep on performing their duty. Conclusion: Our study highlights that healthcare workers in Cameroon are experiencing moderate to high psychological distress as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic. Therefore there is a need for psychosocial support to mitigate the distress and to ensure their well-being.