COVID-19 knowledge and mental health impact assessment in Haiti

TL;DR

This study examines how the COVID-19 pandemic affected mental health and social support in rural Haiti, finding high rates of anxiety, depression, and stress.

Contribution

The study provides new insights into mental health impacts of the pandemic in an under-studied rural developing region.

Findings

Over half of respondents reported daily or frequent anxiety and depression related to the pandemic.

Most lacked social support, and only 4.6% had suitable home plumbing.

High perceived stress levels were observed, prompting immediate mental health interventions.

Abstract

Mental health is a significant public health challenge globally, and one anticipated to increase following the COVID-19 pandemic. In many rural regions of developing nations, little is known about the prevalence of mental health conditions and factors that may help mitigate poor outcomes. This study assessed the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on mental health and social support for residents of rural Haiti. Data were collected from March to May 2020. The Patient Health Questionnaire subscales for anxiety and depression, and the Perceived Stress Scale were utilized in addition to tailored questions specific to COVID-19 knowledge. Half (51.8%) of the 500 survey respondents reported COVID-19-related anxiety and worrying either daily or across a few days. Half (50.2%) also reported experiencing depression daily or across several days. Most (70.4%) did not have any social support, and 28.0% experienced some stress, with 13.4% indicating high perceived stress. Furthermore, 4.6% had suitable plumbing systems in their homes. The results were immediately actionable, informing the implementation of a mental health counseling program for youth following a loss of social support through school closures. Long-term investments must be made as part of public health responses in rural communities in developing nations, which remain under-studied.

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