Factors associated with psychological impact of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak in Nigeria: Regression-based approach

Abstract

Background and Purpose: There is growing evidence of mental health amongst Nigerians is currently neglected. A pilot study evaluating variables linked with mental health during pandemic was conducted to add to the expanding body of knowledge in this area and establish the framework for future research.

Methods: Data were collected using an online self-administered questionnaire, a cross-sectional study of 1075 respondents. Mental health status was assessed using Generalized Anxiety Disorder – 2 (GAD-2) and Patient Health Questionnaire-2 (PHQ-2). Logistic regression was used to investigate the factors associated with mental health status.

Results: Multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to identify the main factors associated with mental health outcomes. Of the 1075 respondents, 678 (63.9%) had anxiety disorder (i.e., GAD ≥  3) and 670 (62.3%) had depression (PHQ ≥  3).  The median age were 30 years, respectively. Multivariate logistic regression shows that sex (Standardize Beta = - 0.84, p < 0.01), degree (Standardize Beta = 0.45, p = 0.006), income level (Standardize Beta = 0.98, p < 0.01) and the region (Standardize Beta = 0.78, p < 0.01) are all significant predictors.

Conclusions: This study provides supportive evidence for mental health education and psychological counselling services. Current household income, level of education, region and gender are the significant predictors of mental health status amongst Nigerians.