Psychological Impact of the COVID-19 Outbreak on Mental Health Among Iranians

Background: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic and its consequences may impact individuals’ mental health. Objectives: present study aimed to investigate the psychological status of individuals during COVID-19 outbreak in Iran following government’s social distancing plan. Methods: Data from 1,524 people were collected using a cross-sectional web-based survey via media. Demographic variables evaluated General Health Questionnaire, Stress Response Inventory, Brunel Mood Scale. Results: Individuals reported that their health functioning decreased pandemic. Four factors associated with increased stress: (1) fear getting sick; (2) indefinite quarantine duration; (3) impaired daily activities; (4) reduced communication. One-third participants physical symptoms (32.7%), 47% anxiety, 72% dysfunction, 28.3% depression. Approximately half (52.2%) disorder symptoms. Detrimental characteristics higher among females, younger people, single people. Conclusions: policies should be implemented help reduce burden after Iranian Social Distancing Plan, especially