Abstract

AUSIN, Berta et al. Loneliness, mental health and COVID-19 in the Spanish population. Escritos de Psicología [online]. 2021, vol.14, n.2, pp.51-62.  Epub May 23, 2022. ISSN 1989-3809.  https://dx.doi.org/10.24310/espsiescpsi.v14i2.12498.

The study aim was to assess the effects of the health emergency and the stay-at-home restrictions on loneliness variables in the Spanish population during the initial stage of COVID-19. A cross-sectional study was conducted through an online survey of 3480 people. From March 14, 2020, screening tests were used to evaluate sociodemographic and COVID-19-related data on loneliness, social support, the presence of mental health symptoms, discrimination, and spiritual well-being. Descriptive analyses were conducted and linear regression models were constructed. A negative association was found between loneliness and being older, being partnered, having children, being a university graduate, being retired or still working, having stronger religious beliefs, believing that information provided about the pandemic was adequate, having social support, and having self-compassion. Actions that promote social support and further studies on loneliness in groups of older people are needed to prevent the pandemic having a stronger impact on mental health and well-being.

Keywords : COVID-19; Loneliness; Mental Health; Social isolation; Quarantine.

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