Impact of COVID-19 outbreak on psycho-socio, economic and health status of people in Chattogram: A cross sectional study

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has had profound global implications, affecting societies in multifaceted ways. This cross-sectional study aims to investigate the impact of the COVID-19 outbreak on the psycho-socio, economic, and health status of the Bangladeshi population. Data were collected through structured surveys distributed via Google Forms between July 2020 and July 2021, involving a representative sample of 202 participants across various regions of Bangladesh. The study reveals significant disruptions in the psycho-social aspects of individuals' lives, marked by increased levels of stress, anxiety, and inclination toward social isolation. As a response to the lockdown, 30.6% of participants opted for social distancing and increased their reliance on social media and online learning platforms. Economic hardships are evident, with a substantial portion (40%) of the population experiencing income loss, job insecurity, and reduced access to basic necessities. Diet status has also been affected, with positive changes in daily diet with 38.7% of respondents reporting adopting a healthier dietary style during this period. The findings highlight the importance of public health interventions, social support systems, and economic relief measures in mitigating the adverse effects of the pandemic. Understanding the unique challenges faced by the Bangladeshi population can aid in the development of targeted policies and strategies to enhance resilience and recovery in the face of future crises.