Physical Health, Psychological Wellbeing and Social Support in COVID-19 – Report
Undertaking fertility treatment is known to be stressful, even during ‘ordinary times’. Commensurate with larger international cohorts, this study highlights the additional negative impact of COVID-19 on patient health behaviours and psychological wellbeing. Given the ongoing challenges presented by continuing outbreaks of COVID-19, our preliminary findings highlight the need to consider strategies to enhance patient psychological care during this unprecedented time.
Our study sought to explore health behaviour changes and the psychosocial implications of COVID-19 for fertility patients. Sixty participants (58 female; 2 male) completed an online survey with items including demographics, fertility history and treatment, changes to physical and mental health status and perceived support. Participant responses were summarised using descriptive statistics.
Whilst most participants received clear communication about restrictions and the availability of treatment from their clinics, over half reported being offered nil to very little professional psychological support. When provided professional support, this was most commonly via fertility doctors and nurses (rather than mental health professionals).
Research Team: Dr Iolanda Rodino (The University of Western Australia), Dr Sonja Goedeke (Auckland University of Technology), Dr Melissa Oxlad (The University of Adelaide), Dr Sarah Nowoweiski (Newlife IVF)
No participant, nor their partner, had been diagnosed with COVID-19 at the time of the study. Most patients indicated that COVID-19 had some degree of impact on their fertility treatment experience, including interruptions to treatment owing to clinic closure and fear of getting pregnant. Patients reported over the last 6-12 months, negative health behaviour changes including a reduction in sleep quality and physical activity, weight gain, increased loneliness, and increased symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress.
Physical Health, Psychological Wellbeing, and Social Support in the Context of COVID-19
Introduction
The global impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has extended beyond physical health to significantly affect psychological wellbeing and social support structures. This summary is drawn from studies and surveys examining how the crisis has reshaped health outcomes, mental health services, and support networks available to individuals.
Physical Health
Infection and Long-term Effects:
A substantial number of individuals who recovered from COVID-19 reported ongoing symptoms like fatigue, muscle weakness, and impaired lung function. Some also developed issues like kidney function impairment, with 63% of those hospitalided in one study experiencing fatigue or muscle weakness six months post-recovery.
Healthcare Utilisation:
There was a notable decrease in the diagnosis of non-COVID related conditions during the height of the lockdowns, suggesting that many physical health conditions might have gone undiagnosed or untreated during this period.
Psychological Wellbeing
Increased Mental Health Issues:
The prevalence of anxiety, depression, and psychological distress has surged. Studies from various countries, including India, have shown pooled prevalence rates of stress at 60.7%, depression at 32.7%, and anxiety at 34.1% during the peak of the crisis.
Vulnerable Populations:
Specific groups like healthcare workers, particularly nurses, those with pre-existing mental health conditions, and individuals with long-term physical health conditions reported heightened levels of psychological distress. The fear of infection, social isolation, and changes in daily life contributed to these outcomes.
Longitudinal Studies:
Studies such as the COVID-19 Psychological Wellbeing Study(1) indicated a significant impact on psychological wellbeing, with younger adults, females, and those with lower socio-economic status facing more pronounced effects.
1. Armour C, McGlinchey E, Butter S, McAloney-Kocaman K, McPherson KE. The COVID-19 Psychological Wellbeing Study: Understanding the Longitudinal Psychosocial Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic in the UK; a Methodological Overview Paper. J Psychopathol Behav Assess. 2021;43(1):174-190. doi: 10.1007/s10862-020-09841-4. Epub 2020 Nov 4. PMID: 33169046; PMCID: PMC7641483.
Social Support
Decreased Social Interaction:
Lockdowns and social distancing measures led to reduced social interactions, which in turn affected psychological health. The absence of physical contact and community support systems was particularly challenging, contributing to loneliness and decreased wellbeing.
Role of Digital Communication:
There was a pivot to digital platforms for maintaining social connections, which had mixed results. While it kept some level of social support intact, it also highlighted digital disparities and the inadequacy of virtual interactions for some.
Community and Government Responses:
Programs like psychological first aid, increased mental health support through telemedicine, and community initiatives aimed at supporting isolated individuals (like the elderly) were implemented in various countries. However, the effectiveness varied, with many still experiencing a lack of sufficient support.
Conclusion
The COVID-19 pandemic has undeniably strained physical health systems and significantly impacted psychological wellbeing, with social support systems adapting but not always meeting the increased demand. The long-term effects on mental health could be profound, necessitating ongoing research and intervention. Governments, healthcare providers, and communities must continue to develop and refine strategies to support both physical and psychological health in the post-COVID era, emphasizing resilience, access to care, and the strengthening of social support networks.
Recommendations for Future Action
Strengthen Mental Health Services:
Increase accessibility to mental health support, focusing on telehealth services to reach those in remote or lockdown areas.
Improve Social Support Systems:
Enhance community-based support networks, ensuring they are inclusive and can adapt to digital platforms for broader reach.
Physical Health Monitoring:
Establish programs to catch up on delayed diagnoses and promote preventive health measures.
Research and Data Collection:
Continue longitudinal studies to understand the long-term impact of the pandemic, informing policy and support measures.
This research underscores the interconnectedness of physical health, psychological wellbeing, and social support in facing global health crises like the COVID-19 pandemic.