Distress, anxiety, and its correlates among caregivers of children with kidney diseases during COVID-19 pandemic lockdown

BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic has generated a significant amount of psychological burden in the form of stress, anxiety, uncertainty, depression, anger, and helplessness. The caregivers of children with chronic diseases in particular are at a higher risk of mental stress and burden. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We conducted an online survey among caregivers of children with kidney diseases to assess the psychosocial impact of COVID-19. The psychosocial impact of COVID-19 pandemic on their mental health was assessed through standardized psychological scales (Peritraumatic Distress Inventory, Insomnia Severity Scale [ISI], Depression Anxiety and Stress Scale [DASS], and Positive and Negative Aspect Scale) and a semi-structured interview was conducted telephonically. RESULTS: A total of 200 caregivers participated in the study. The mean age of the participants was 36±5.56 years, and 76% were males. Participants experienced maximum distress in terms of life threat (6.27±4.64), followed by helplessness and anger (2.66 ± 1.65). Among participants, 38% of them exhibited significant distress. The majority scored below the cut-off on positive affect (98%), and thus could not experience positive emotions and interaction, and 37.5% of participants were feeling significant negative affect. On the ISI, 38.5% of participants experienced significant sleep problems. On the DASS, 65% of participants exhibited significant stress, 76% anxiety, and 78.5% depression. CONCLUSION: A high prevalence of stress, anxiety, and depression along with insomnia was detected among the caregivers of children with kidney diseases during the COVID-19 pandemic.