WORLD JOURNAL OF ADVANCE
HEALTHCARE RESEARCH

Atabong Emmanuel Njingu*, Ankwatia Guisilla Dedino, Jean Pierre Tchambou and Lawrence Kanjo Ndumu

ABSTRACT

Introduction: Cameroon is one of the countries hit by the Corona Virus (COVID-19) pandemic. While the current global focus is on preventing transmission, testing and finding an effective vaccine, the public are going through multiple psychological challenges in adjusting to the restrictive measures put in place by governments and in dealing with the disease. This study assessed the mental health impact of COVID-19 and associated factors among infected individuals in Cameroon. Methods: From July 10th to 9th August 2020, we conducted an online survey by sharing link to study questionnaire to potential study participants via text messages inviting eligible individuals to freely fill the study questionnaire. The survey data collected consisted of anonymous demographic characteristics, validated Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scales (DASS-21) and Impact of Event Scale-Revised (IES-R). Data was analyzed using SPSS version 25. Results: This study had a total of 270 participants. About 47% of respondents had mild to severe psychological impact, 55% reported mild to severe levels of anxiety, 63% had symptoms of depression and 65% admitted that they were stressed. Female gender, occupation of healthcare worker, age between 45 to 54 years and isolation out of home were significantly associated with poor mental health outcome. Conclusion: Stress, depression and anxiety are very common among individuals infected with COVID-19 in Cameroon. These psychological conditions are more common among infected women, healthcare workers, people aged 45 – 54 years and those isolated out of home. This study brings out the necessity to adopt a holistic approach, which includes mental health support for the management of patients infected with COVID-19 in Cameroon.

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