# Prevalence of psychological distress: a scientific approach towards the mental health and wellbeing of population during the SARS-COV-2 outbreak

## TL;DR

This study examines the mental health impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on people in Peshawar, Pakistan, finding that factors like gender and employment affect psychological distress.

## Contribution

The study provides insights into mental health trends in Peshawar during the pandemic, emphasizing the role of demographic and socioeconomic factors.

## Key findings

- The average psychological distress score was 25.55, indicating moderate stress levels.
- Gender and employment status were significantly linked to psychological distress (p=0.001 and p=0.018, respectively).
- Urban residents and younger individuals showed higher distress levels.

## Abstract

The global challenge of the novel coronavirus has led to an unprecedented downturn, adversely affecting the health and mental wellbeing of communities worldwide. The objective of this study is to assess mental health and psychological distress levels within the general population of Peshawar, Pakistan amidst the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

A cross-sectional online study was conducted among 715 individuals residing in Peshawar city, Pakistan. A questionnaire containing details about demographics, socioeconomic status, and residential area was employed. To assess the mental wellbeing of participants a Modified K10, Kesslers psychological distress Scale was used. Descriptive statistics, including mean and standard deviations, were utilized for data analysis. Statistical analyses were performed using Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS, IBM USA,version 22).

A total of 715 responses were collected. The comprehensive psychological distress score was identified as 25.55, signifying moderate stress levels. Among the respondents, 53.3% were females, 46.7% had completed a bachelor’s degree, 41% were employed, 78.7% were single, 93.1% were non-smokers, and 69.4% resided in urban areas. The study revealed that both gender (p=0.001) employment status (p=0.018) were linked to a more pronounced psychological impact of the outbreak.

The present study indicates that age, gender, employment status, and urbanization are influential factors contributing to psychological distress during the outbreak. As we confront the challenges of the new normal, it is crucial for policymakers to acknowledge and tackle the growing mental health concerns within the population.