Psychological Reactions Among Adults During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Cross-sectional Survey in Atyrau, Kazakhstan

Abstract

This cross-sectional survey conducted in Atyrau, Kazakhstan aimed to underline the psychological reactions among adults during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study involved sampling individuals from different age groups and employed standardized questionnaires to assess psychological and psychophysiological profiles, considering factors such as gender, age, education, and social status. A total of 798 participants were surveyed with informed consent obtained from all participants. The findings revealed a wide range of psychological reactions experienced by the urban population during the pandemic. Vulnerable groups, including the young, the elderly, and predominantly females, exhibited a significant negative impact on their psychological and psychophysical health. Factors such as education, social living conditions, family status, and income level played crucial roles in influencing individuals’ psychoemotional state. Comparative analysis between individuals diagnosed with COVID-19 and those without the disease showed that the pandemic acted as a trigger for the manifestation of psychoemotional, psychophysiological, and mental disorders. The study emphasized the importance of psychoprophylactic measures and psychoeducational methods for all population groups, particularly targeting vulnerable populations. Integration of mental health and psychosocial support services into the public health response was highlighted as crucial to mitigating the adverse effects on individuals’ mental health and overall well-being. Understanding the psychological reactions during the COVID- 19 pandemic provided valuable insights for developing effective interventions and support systems to alleviate the impact on individuals’ mental health. The study’s findings underscored the importance of addressing mental health needs and implementing targeted interventions to support the psychological well-being of the population.