COVID-19 and Mental Health: A Retrospective study to assess the Effects of COVID 19 on Mental Wellbeing of Post COVID Patients using Global Mental Health Assessment Tool (GMHAT) in Madhya Pradesh, India

Abstract

Introduction
COVID-19 caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus has shown its rapid progression across the globe. With the first case
reported in December 2019, the pandemic witnessed an unprecedented escalation, leading to the World Health
Organization declaring the outbreak a Public Health Emergency of International Concern in January 2020 and a
Pandemic in March 2020. Soon the rage of the Pandemic brought the world to a grinding halt with nations including
India declaring the biggest documented lockdowns in history.
Methods
A retrospective telephonic interview-based study was carried out for months. Data was collected from the
SARTHAK Portal. Data coinciding with the peak of COVID-19 patients that was observed from 24th April 2021 was
obtained. Respondents of 2 weeks prior the peak and 2 weeks after the peak were considered. The selected
candidates were interviewed by JHPIEGO RISE (Reaching Impact, Saturation, and Epidemic Control) counselors.
Result
The Majority of patients of COVID-19 belong to the age group of 30-39 (23.25%). Patients belonging to urban areas
(81.25%) were affected more as compared to rural areas (18.75%). Out of 400 patients, males (64.25%) constitute
more positive cases as compared to females (35.75%).
Conclusion
As the coronavirus pandemic rapidly sweeps across the world, it induces a considerable degree of fear, worry and
concern in the population at large and among certain groups in particular, such as older adults, care providers and
people with underlying health conditions. As new measures and impacts are introduced – especially quarantine and
its effects on many people’s usual activities, routines, or livelihoods – levels of loneliness, depression, harmful
alcohol and drug use, and self-harm or suicidal behavior are also expected to rise.