Mental health in health workers during the COVID-19 pandemic: a review

Abstract

Introduction. The COVID-19 pandemic represents a challenge for health systems around the world. This is because the workload falls on their staff and results in stress, anxiety, and other mental health issues. Methods. A review of the literature available in different scientific search engines (Pubmed, Medline, Scopus, Google Scholar) and on the website of the World Health Organization (WHO) was carried out from January to July 2020. The articles included in the review were published in indexed journals. Discussion. Health workers experienced more stress, anxiety, insomnia and symptoms of depression than the rest of the population. Additionally, risk factors were identified that predispose alterations in their mental well-being such as being a woman, a nursing staff or a student, the infodemic and misinformation. Conclusion. Monitoring the mental well-being of health workers through telemedicine and psychological support is necessary to provide care for those who experience these health problems, as well as the implementation of awareness campaigns and provision of appropriate protective equipment to health personnel.