Abstract

Aim: To evaluate for mixed anxiety-depressive disorder in health care workers in the Pharmacy, Nursing and Support Staff during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic.

Methods: A cross-sectional-analytical study was carried out from March to September 2020 in health care workers who were directly exposed to SARS-CoV-2 because of their work. A survey was conducted previous informed consent, with variables including age, sex, marital status, economic dependence, service in which they work, profession, working day, among others; with the participation of 200 volunteers, through a virtual link.

Results: A total of 127 health workers, that is, 63.5% of the sample, presented more than four symptoms suggestive mixed anxious-depressive disorder. The most predominant symptoms were worry (88.2%), fatigue (88.2%), lack of energy (78.0%) and sleep disorders (74.8%).

Conclusion: mixed anxiety-depressive disorder was prevalent during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. Factors such as prolonged exposure to stressful scenarios, as well as female sex, not having a partner or belonging to an age group younger than 45 years old, can lead to the development of a mental disorder. It is therefore important to be able to identify the population at risk, provide the necessary support and follow-up, as well as the creation of protocols that provide guidance on how to act to ensure the integrity of health personnel.

Keywords: SARS-CoV-2; Mental Health; Pharmacy; Nursing and Support Staff.