Physical Activity Reduces Depression among Healthcare Workers during the COVID-19 Pandemic in Jordan

AIMS: This study aimed to assess mental health status by measuring depression and investigating the effect of physical activity in lessening the mental health burden among HCWs during the COVID-19 pandemic in Jordan. BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic has caused distress and depression among healthcare workers and drastic disruptions in social, economic, and health systems worldwide. METHODS: A cross-sectional online study through google forms involved HCWs across Jordan for two months. The 10-item short form of the Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale Revised (CESD-R10) was used to assess depressive symptoms. RESULTS: The total sample was 295, females were 50.5% with mean age of 33.1 (>80% less than 40 years old), married 51.9%, 63% were physicians, 88.1% had contact with patients, and 64.7% were smokers. Depression symptoms were perceived by 59.3% of the total samples (53.1). CONCLUSION: During the COVID-19-induced nationwide lockdown in Jordan, HCWs who engaged in enough physical exercise reported fewer depressive symptoms. Promoting physical exercise among HCWs may lead to better results for their mental health. Various clinical implications support promoting designated time and space for physical activity at work.