The Fear Pandemic: Effects of COVID-19 on mental health at different ages

Abstract

Objective: To explore the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the well-being and mental health, on different age groups, in residents of the state of São Paulo. Methods: A cross-sectional quantitative survey was carried out using an anonymous multiple choice online, which could be answered by people over 18 years of age, who voluntarily accepted to fill it out, along with the Informed Consent Form. Results: A total of 1539 people answered the questionnaire, and 25 were excluded for not meeting the requirements. Discussion: The study showed that there is statistical relevance between different factors (change of habits and routine, concern with individual physical health, concern with the physical health of friends and family, and concern with the global socioeconomic situation) and the well-being and mental health of the sampled individuals. Conclusion: different age groups experienced impacts on different aspects of their well-being, but all were adversely affected. In such a way, it is necessary to develop protective measures directed to avoid the mental illness, and consequently the incapacitation, of the population.