Psychometric impact of COVID-19 in Kolkata

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Original Article

Author Details : J Mukhopadhyay*

Volume : 7, Issue : 3, Year : 2020

Article Page : 89-94

https://doi.org/10.18231/j.jchm.2020.021

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Abstract

Background: The calamitous apocalyptic COVID-19 pandemic has vitiated global life inscrutably in
the recent era. The vicious contagion ravaged life not only with disease & death but even precipitated
psychological dysphoria among many. Considering this alarming consternation, it was decided to ascertain
the deleterious effect of COVID-19 pandemic on psyche and mind-set of educated residents of a housing
society in south Kolkata in the background of their knowledge and preventive behaviour against COVID-19.
Materials and Methods: 360 adults of a gated housing society in south Kolkata were studied during 3rd -
4th week of May 2020. Approval from authority and informed consent of the residents were obtained. A
pretested structured questionnaire was introduced including demographic attributes, knowledge-awarenesspractice
(KAP) traits of COVID-19 prevention amid psychological projections of mind-state of residents
emerging from COVID-19 issues. The data obtained was tabulated and statistically validated.
Result: The adult contingent had 52.2% male and 47.8% female with mean age of 37.8±12.5 and
35.9 ±11.6 years respectively. All were literate with majority (63.9%) being graduates belonging to
high income group (78.6%). All members were aware about COVID-19 & its prevention and followed
preventive measures unfailingly aside embracing the Govt. policies & restrictions responsively. Anxiety
was experienced significantly by ladies exhibited as frequent hand washing(84.4%), repeated use of
sanitizer & gloves(70%), avoiding shopping(84.4%), discussing current spate with family members(82%),
fear of contracting COVID-19(40%), skipping TV news & media(40%) and sleep disturbances(8.6%).
Significantly many ladies disclosed need for psychological comfort like more time with working spouse
(56.7%), palliation from anxiety (50%), counselling for stressful feelings (62.8%) and restricting media
portraying looming grim (100%). In spite of heightened anxiety, the well-aware elites displayed infinite
impetus and futuristic attitude to overcome the crisis convincingly.
Conclusion: Sincere revelation of reality relating to psychological adversities emanating from pandemic
would add fundamental clues to COVID-19 preventive strategies in future.

Keywords: COVID-19, Pandemic, Anxiety, Psychometric impact.

How to cite : Mukhopadhyay J , Psychometric impact of COVID-19 in Kolkata. J Community Health Manag 2020;7(3):89-94

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