Relationship of COVID-19 pandemic grief with anxiety, depression, and fear of COVID-19 among Colombian adults

Introduction: Coronavirus deaths had a particular significance in the context of the pandemic; however, the association of COVID-19 pandemic grief has been little investigated. Objective: To explore the relationship between COVID-19 pandemic grief, generalized anxiety, depression, and fear of COVID-19 among Colombian adults. Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted with the participation of people with a history of losing a loved one who were invited to participate and complete the Pandemic Grief Scale, PHQ-9, GAD-7, and Fear COVID-5 Scale. Results: 123 people aged between 18 and 71 years participated; 81.3% were women. COVID-19 pandemic grief was associated with depression (r=0.51, p<0.01) and generalized anxiety (r=0.43, p<0.01); while COVID-19 pandemic grief was independent of COVID-19 fear (r=0.29, p>0.01). Conclusions: COVID-19 pandemic grief was associated with generalized anxiety and depression. Future longitudinal studies may improve understanding of the relationship between these variables.