Telework during COVID-19 outbreak: Impact on mental health among Italian workers

Introduction Since February 2020, the outbreak of COVID-19 has spread to several countries worldwide, including Italy, leading an uptake telework. Objectives We aim evaluate psychopathological impact teleworking during pandemic in identifying mental health determinants among home-based workers. Methods 804 participants completed online survey, psychometric scales “Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale – 21 items” (DASS-21) “Insomnia Severity Index” (ISI). Teleworkers were also asked provide information about their current work routine, home environment clinical history. Results At DASS-21, 30% presented pathological levels depression, 20.8% anxiety 30.7% stress. ISI, 5% appeared suffer from insomnia. Respondents with psychological physical frailties, greater social isolation or inadequate working spaces manifested higher psychiatric symptoms. Moreover, we find a correlation these symptoms occupations education. Telework was broadly appreciated 87% respondents expressed willingness maintain access this arrangement. Conclusions Our results document that third our sample while Italy. However, telework itself does not seem be directly associated increased symptoms, which instead exacerbated by COVID-19-related stressful circumstances, as well constitutional health. Going forward, authorities should promote adequate measures order guarantee healthy approach teleworking. Disclosure No significant relationships.