An investigation of the psychological stress of medical staff in Shanghai shelter hospital during COVID-19

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to assess the psychological status of medical workers from other locations who helped support the fight against COVID-19 in Shanghai and to provide a basis for psychological crisis intervention plans under designated emergencies. METHODS: While supporting the Shanghai Lingang Shelter Hospital, we investigated 1,097 medical staff from other cities working in the hospital. A questionnaire comprising the general information questionnaire, health questionnaire depression scale, generalized anxiety scale, insomnia severity index scale, and mental health self-assessment questionnaire was used. RESULTS: There were no statistically significant differences in the incidence rates of anxiety, depression, and sleep disorders among subjects of different genders, ages, and educational levels. There were statistically significant differences in the incidences of anxiety, depression, stress response, and sleep disturbance among subjects with different levels of worry about COVID-19. CONCLUSION: During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Lingang Shelter Hospital team experienced more psychological pressure, suggesting that medical institutions should pay attention to the mental health of frontline medical workers during COVID-19 and prepare psychological intervention measures for team members.