Psychological responses and associated factors during the initial lockdown due to the corona disease epidemic (COVID-19) among Norwegian citizens

Background Ongoing COVID-19 studies pay little attention to the risk or protective factors related to psychological stress. Aims This study aims to estimate the prevalence of anxiety, depression and insomnia during the initial phase of the COVID-19 outbreak, and explore factors that might be associated with these outcomes. Methods A population-based cross-sectional survey was conducted using snowball-sampling strategy. Participants from 18 years or older filled out an anonymous online questionnaire. Results A total of 4527 citizens filled out the questionnaire. Prevalence rates were; insomnia 31.8%, anxiety 17.1% and depression 12.5%. Risk factors associated with anxiety, depression and insomnia were being single (OR = 0.75, OR = 0.57, OR = 0.59), unemployed (OR = 0.47, OR = 0.53, OR = 0.73), financial concerns (OR = 1.66, OR = 2.09, OR = 1.80) at risk for complication from COVID-19 (OR = 1.63, OR = 1.68, OR = 1.60), and being generally worried due to the COVID-19 (OR 0 3.06, OR = 1.41, OR = 1.74). Conclusion Being single, unemployed, at risk of health complications, or having concerns because of financial or other consequences of the pandemic are associated with mental health adversities such as anxiety, depression and insomnia during a pandemic lockdown.

Automated summary

This study found high prevalence rates of anxiety, depression, and insomnia during the initial phase of the COVID-19 outbreak. Being single, unemployed, having financial concerns, at risk for complications from COVID-19, or generally worried due to the pandemic were identified as risk factors for these mental health issues.