Socio-demographic correlates of depressive and anxiety symptoms among Jamaicans during the COVID-19 pandemic: A Rapid Online Survey

Abstract

Objectives This study sought to investigate the prevalence and socio-demographic correlates of depressive and anxiety symptoms among Jamaicans during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Methods This was a cross-sectional, population-based online survey. Persons 18 years and older, who reside in Jamaica were targeted via the Facebook social media platform. Those interested in participating were routed to a separate survey platform. The questionnaire captured data related to socio-demographics, knowledge of COVID-19, and beliefs and attitudes about COVID-19. Mental health issues including depressive and anxiety symptoms were assessed with questionnaire items from the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-2) and the Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD-2). Results There were 485 participants in the study (90.8% female and 9.2% male). Almost all (97.7%) of participants felt that COVID-19 had greatly affected their lives. The prevalence of notable depressive symptoms and anxiety symptoms was 54.7% and 49.2% respectively. Binary logistic regression found significant associations between younger age, lower educational level, unemployment and significant depressive symptoms. While younger age and lower educational level were associated with significant anxiety symptoms. Conclusion The findings suggest the need for the government to develop targeted mental health initiatives for young adults, the under- or unemployed and those with lower levels of education.

Public trust, information sources and vaccine willingness related to the COVID-19 pandemic in Trinidad and Tobago: an online cross-sectional survey

“…[15] This method is easy and convenient for responders and has been successfully implemented in related studies in other countries. [16][17][18] Participants with internet access were eligible to participate once they were over the age of 18 years, English speaking, inclusive of nationals and non-nationals but residing in Trinidad and Tobago during the pandemic period. Participation was voluntary, anonymous and confidential and no compensation was provided.…”

Capacity building in mental health: preparing Caribbean psychologists for the future

“…However, the number of practising psychologists, although significantly greater, is not enough to address the mental health needs of the region (Abel et al , 2012; Hickling, 2020; Maynard, 2013; Maynard et al , 2022). The shortage of psychologists is especially apparent with the increased reported incidence of mental health challenges such as depression and anxiety in the Caribbean since the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 (King and Devonish, 2022; Thind et al , 2021; Whitehorne-Smith et al , 2021). Hence, there is a dire need for more psychologists.…”