Psychological and Occupational Factors Associated with Depression Among Healthcare Providers During the COVID – 19 Pandemic in A Regional Referral Hospital in Kisumu County
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Abstract
Background: Corona Virus Disease of 2019 (COVID-19) spread across the globe, causing distress among various
populations, including healthcare providers. This disease has had an unparalleled effect on the world’s economic
situation, livelihood, mental and physical well-being across the globe.
The study aimed to determine the prevalence of depression and identify the occupational and psychological factors
associated with depression among health care providers during the COVID-19 pandemic in a regional referral hospital
in Kisumu County.
Methods: We conducted a hospital-based cross-sectional study at JOOTRH where a total of 202 respondents participated
in the study. The survey questionnaire consisted of four components: demographic factors, occupational factors, and
psychological factors. Depression was measured using the 9-item Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9). Data was
analysed using the statistical package for Social Science version 28. Pearson chi-square was used to determine the
occupational and psychological factors associated with depression during the COVID-19 pandemic at p ≤ .05.
Results: The overall prevalence of depression was at 57.4%. The occupational and psychological factors associated with
depression among healthcare providers during the COVID-19 pandemic included being over 30 years old, married,
having over 6 years of work experience, COVID-19 training, having an irregular work schedule, lacking psychological
support services, and facing stigma.
Conclusion: The study findings revealed a considerable proportion of depressive symptoms among health providers
during the COVID-19 pandemic at JOOTRH. Older age, being married, more years of work experience, previous
exposure to pandemic, having COVID-19 training, and irregular work schedule, experience of stigma, and lack of
psychological support were significantly associated with depression.