Mental Health Struggles in Bangladesh During COVID-19

The COVID-19 pandemic has taken a toll on mental health globally, and Bangladesh is no exception. The pandemic has significantly increased the levels of depression, anxiety, and stress among the Bangladeshi population. A study was conducted to understand the mental health condition of the Bangladeshi population during this pandemic. The study took place online from February 17, 2021, to April 8, 2021, during the lockdown period in Bangladesh. The study used the Depression Anxiety Stress Scales-21 (DASS-21) to gather data. The study collected about 310 responses from participants. The study found that depression was significantly associated with the level of education and previous psychological intervention. Higher levels of depression were observed among postgraduates and those who had previously sought help from psychiatrists. The most common level of depression among respondents was moderate, at 28. 06%. Highly severe anxiety was reported by 22. 26% of participants, and moderate stress was experienced by 18. 39%. The study also found that the living area of participants was significantly associated with depression and anxiety. Individuals residing in urban areas exhibited higher rates of both conditions. Despite the adverse mental health status during the pandemic, only 36 out of 310 participants visited psychologists or psychiatrists. This low number highlights the substantial stigma around seeking formal mental health treatment in Bangladesh. Low compliance rates for talk therapy further emphasize this issue. To address this, government organizations and NGOs should raise awareness among the public. Community-level campaigns, state-level insurance, and peer support programs can help. Utilizing digital space to familiarize people with mental health issues is also crucial. This can help reduce the stigma and encourage more people to seek the help they need. The study also found that the level of education and previous psychological intervention were significantly associated with depression. This suggests that education and prior mental health support play a role in how individuals cope with stress and anxiety. The study's findings highlight the need for more mental health resources and support in Bangladesh. By addressing the stigma and providing more resources, the country can better support its population's mental health. The study's findings also highlight the importance of mental health support during times of crisis. The COVID-19 pandemic has shown that mental health is just as important as physical health. By providing more resources and support, the country can better prepare for future crises. This can help ensure that the population's mental health is protected and supported during difficult times.