TITLE:
Anxiety, Depression, and Associated Factors among Teachers during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Multi-Centre Cross-Sectional Study in Zambia
AUTHORS:
Steward Mudenda, Maisa Kasanga, Scott Kaba Matafwali, Roland Nnaemeka Okoro, Ruth Lindizyani Mfune, Tina Haanyanga, Matildah Nyoni, Annie Mumba, Godfrey Mayoka, Victor Daka, Christabel Nang’andu Hikaambo, Webrod Mufwambi, Shafiq Mohamed, Billy Chabalenge
KEYWORDS:
COVID-19, Mental Health, Anxiety, Depression, Secondary Schools, Teachers, Zambia
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Access Library Journal,
Vol.11 No.3,
March
15,
2024
ABSTRACT: Background: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic inflicted unprecedented work-related strain, negatively impacting the mental health of many, including teachers. This study assessed the impact of COVID-19 on the mental health of secondary school teachers in Lusaka, Zambia. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted among 388 teachers in selected secondary schools in Lusaka district, Zambia, from July 2022 to September 2022. Data were collected using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) and analysed using IBM SPSS version 28.0. Statistical significance was determined at a 95% confidence level. Logistic regression was used to determine the factors that influenced anxiety and depression levels among teachers. Results: Among the 388 teachers, the prevalence of anxiety and depression was 72% and 73%, respectively. Factors associated with anxiety were; being quarantined due to COVID-19 (AOR = 1.96, 95% CI: 1.11 - 3.45), having a chronic condition (AOR = 2.45, 95% CI: 1.19 - 5.05), having a friend or relative with COVID-19 (AOR = 1.8, 95% CI: 1.08 - 2.99) and experiencing death of either a friend or relative (AOR = 2.36, 95% CI: 1.48 - 3.76). Factors associated with depression included; having a friend or relative with COVID-19 (AOR = 2.63, 95% CI: 1.38 - 5.00), experiencing the death of either a friend or relative (AOR = 2.03, 95% CI = 1.16 -3 .54) and suffering income disruptions due to COVID-19 (AOR = 1.65, 95% CI: 1.02 - 2.66). Conclusions: This study found that anxiety and depression were highly prevalent, especially among teachers with predisposing factors. These findings demonstrate the need to develop and implement strategies to tackle mental health challenges among teachers, especially during pandemic periods.