Prevalence of Depression among Doctors in General Hospitals of Basrah City Center During the COVID-19 Pandemic
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Keywords
depression, , COVID-19,, Iraqi doctors
Abstract
Background: Depression is the most common mental disorder in community settings and a major cause of disability worldwide. In 1999, it was the fourth most common cause of disability globally, and by 2020, it is projected to become the second most common cause. Doctors, as the primary workforce in hospitals, endure significant emotional and physical stress, which may have been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Aim: This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of depression among doctors during the COVID-19 pandemic and its risk factors. Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from February 1 to June 1, 2021. The study population comprised 327 doctors working in seven general hospitals in Basra city center. An online questionnaire was utilized, and the responses were analyzed using SPSS program version 26. Results: The study included 48.9% males and 51.1% females, with participants aged between 24 and 67 years. Most participants were married (70.6%), and nearly half had children, with years of service being less than five. A total of 73% of doctors exhibited depressive symptoms, with mild depressive episode was the most common (36.4%), occurring more frequently in females (75.4%) than in males (70.6%). The most significant risk factors identified were exposure to violence and the presence of comorbid physical conditions. Conclusions: The high prevalence of depression was particularly noted among doctors who work in AL-Basra Teaching Hospital for Maternity and Children, with pediatricians being the most affected specialty.
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