The Association of Transmission Concerns and Social Distance From Loved Ones With Distress in Medical Professionals Providing Care During the COVID-19 Pandemic in New York City

Background: Health care workers (HCWs) during the COVID-19 pandemic report high levels of psychological distress. We examined whether concerns regarding transmission of COVID-19 to loved ones and social distancing from loved ones were associated with HCWs' distress. We tested whether living with others modified these associations. Method: HCWs at a New York City academic medical center (N = 767; 80.7% female, 58.5% White) enrolled in the COVID-19 Health Care Provider Study and completed a web-based survey between April 9, 2020 and May 11, 2020. Results: Controlling for demographics, distress regarding potential transmission to loved ones and social distancing from loved ones were each significantly associated with higher odds of a positive screen for acute stress, depression, and anxiety (ORs = 1.29-1.59, all ps < .01). Living with others was associated with lower odds of a positive screen for depression and anxiety, though the protective effect for anxiety was evident only for HCWs with no distress regarding transmission concerns. Conclusions: Transmission concerns and social distancing from loved ones were associated with greater odds of psychological distress, whereas living with others was associated with lower odds of distress. Interventions should consider ways to facilitate the ability of HCWs to receive social support from loved ones, while simultaneously protecting their family's health. Public Significance Statement The COVID-19 pandemic has caused high levels of psychological distress in many health care workers (HCWs). Fears about transmitting COVID-19 to loved ones and distancing from loved ones were each associated with distress, but living with others was protective. Interventions should consider safety measures to protect against these fears, thereby allowing HCWs to benefit from the support of their loved ones.

Automated summary

The study found that concerns about transmitting COVID-19 to loved ones and maintaining social distance from loved ones were associated with psychological distress among healthcare workers. Living with others was shown to lower the risk of depression and anxiety.