Effects of the Pandemic on Mental Health of General Population and Healthcare Professionals

The fear of getting sick in the pandemic, the changes brought about by social distance and isolation affect people spiritually. These changes can cause anxiety and depression. Especially the increase in loneliness and decrease in social interactions are important risk factors for mental illnesses such as schizophrenia and major depression (2). In a study conducted in Iran, it was emphasized that stress increases mental morbidity and causes uncertainty and unpredictability. It has been reported that this uncertainty can cause or exacerbate fear, depression and anxiety. Situations that cause stress in a person's life can cause mental disorders such as panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and trauma-related disorders (3). Many studies in the literature have studied the effects of the pandemic on anxiety, depression and stress. In addition, some studies have shown that the pandemic has negative psychological consequences such as sleep disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and hopelessness