Global prevalence of mental health issues among the general population during the coronavirus disease-2019 pandemic: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract

To provide a contemporary global prevalence of mental health issues among the general population amid the coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. We searched electronic databases, preprint databases, grey literature, and unpublished studies from January 1, 2020, to June 16, 2020 (updated on July 11, 2020), with no language restrictions. Observational studies using validated measurement tools and reporting data on mental health issues among the general population were screened to identify all relevant studies. We have included information from 32 different countries and 398,771 participants. The pooled prevalence of mental health issues amid the COVID-19 pandemic varied widely across countries and regions and was higher than previous reports before the COVID-19 outbreak began. The global prevalence estimate was 28.0% for depression; 26.9% for anxiety; 24.1% for post-traumatic stress symptoms; 36.5% for stress; 50.0% for psychological distress; and 27.6% for sleep problems. Data are limited for other aspects of mental health issues. Our findings highlight the disparities between countries in terms of the poverty impacts of COVID-19, preparedness of countries to respond, and economic vulnerabilities that impact the prevalence of mental health problems. Research on the social and economic burden is needed to better manage mental health problems during and after epidemics or pandemics. Systematic review registration: PROSPERO CRD 42020177120.

Figure 1

Pooled prevalence of depression among the general population amid the COVID-19 pandemic. COVID-19 coronavirus disease 2019, CI confidence interval, df degree of freedom, NA not applicable. References are listed according to WHO region in the appendix, Table S3.

Figure 2

Pooled prevalence of anxiety among the general population amid the COVID-19 pandemic. COVID-19 coronavirus disease 2019, CI confidence interval, df degree of freedom, NA not applicable. References are listed according to WHO region in the appendix, Table S3.

Figure 3

Pooled prevalence of PTSS among the general population amid the COVID-19 pandemic. COVID-19 coronavirus disease 2019, CI confidence interval, df degree of freedom, NA not applicable, PTSS post-traumatic stress symptoms. References are listed according to WHO region in the appendix, Table S3.

Figure 4

Pooled prevalence of stress among the general population amid the COVID-19 pandemic. COVID-19 coronavirus disease 2019, CI confidence interval, df degree of freedom, NA not applicable. References are listed according to WHO region in the appendix, Table S3.

Figure 5

Pooled prevalence of psychological distress among the general population amid the COVID-19 pandemic. COVID-19 coronavirus disease 2019, CI confidence interval, df degree of freedom, NA not applicable. References are listed according to WHO region in the appendix, Table S3.

Figure 6

Pooled prevalence of sleep problems among the general population amid the COVID-19 pandemic. COVID-19 coronavirus disease 2019, CI confidence interval, df degree of freedom, NA not applicable. References are listed according to WHO region in the appendix, Table S3.