Psychological Scars of COVID-19 Pandemic: An Analysis of the Impact on a Cross-Sectional Sample from Romania

Abstract

Background. The worldwide COVID-19 pandemic has impacted the physical and psychosocial health of the population, with consequences that stretch beyond the initial outbreak. In this context, our aim was to evaluate the psychological effects of the pandemic on individuals in Romania. Methods. We conducted a cross-sectional survey to compare the severity of psychological distress, encompassing anxiety, stress, and depression, in the general population, using DASS-21 questionnaire. Results. Among the 521 valid responses, the experience of illness has broadened the perception of all DASS indicators compared to individuals who have not encountered the disease. Moderate cases of the illness have notably increased anxiety and stress levels, while severe cases of COVID-19 have led to elevated levels of depression. Women exhibit all the assessed variables in a more pronounced manner compared to men. Among the surveyed population, individuals aged over 65 have shown a significant increase in DASS values in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Conclusion. As we have navigated through the pandemic, it has become clear that varying degrees of psychosocial scars remain in its wake. Within Romania’s sociocultural context, it is apparent that women and the elderly demonstrate unique psychological susceptibilities. Urgent action is required to proactively address and reduce the adverse effects of the pandemic on these vulnerable groups.