Journal of Studies in Social Sciences and Humanities (Dec 2021)
Mental Health Service Users experience of Covid-19 and prevention measures in Trinidad and Tobago: A Cross Sectional Survey
Abstract
The emergence of the Covid-19 pandemic had a significant impact on health services in Trinidad and Tobago, especially the impact on mental health services users. It then begs the question whether they can understand and comply with changing government regulations. A cross sectional survey of mental health service users was carried out in seven (7) psychiatric outpatient clinics. 384 participants in this survey, 142 (36.9%) were men and 242 (63.1%) were females. None of the service users reported any Covid-19 symptoms or previously tested positive for Covid-19. There were significant differences between males and females in their knowledge about Covid-19 and the prevention measures. Gender difference is reflected in the response and reaction to the lockdown measures except leaving home occasionally against government measures. The findings of this study showed that male and females mental health service users differ in their knowledge of the COVID-19 virus as well as their reaction and response to the different governmental measures. It also shows they were equally affected by the pandemic like the general population despite the negative perception about their ability to understand and follow government instituted guidelines.
