The occurrence of anxiety disorders among Poles during the COVID-19 pandemic

Aim. The aim of the study was to assess anxiety among Poles between the 35th and the 42nd day after the introduction of the state of epidemiological threat, and to compare the obtained results with global reports and the pre-pandemic state. Materials and methods. The study was conducted on 2,457 respondents from Poland. The research methods comprised an original survey questionnaire, distributed via the Internet from 17 to 24 April 2020, assessing the sociodemographic state, and standardized psychometric tools: the Beck Depression Inventory, Generalized Anxiety Disorder Questionnaire (GAD-7) and Manchester Short Assessment of Quality of Life. Results. The results of 71% of the respondents indicated the presence of anxiety symptoms with various degrees of severity. In 45% of the respondents, the total score was >= 10 points, indicating signs of Generalized Anxiety Disorder. Female respondents scored significantly higher than men. Place of residence, marital status and the type of performed work had no statistically significant impact on the level of anxiety. Conclusions. The COVID-19 pandemic significantly affected the mental condition of Poles, resulting in increased anxiety, fear and concerns regarding the future. 71% of the respondents showed different degrees of anxiety severity, and 44% of them scored at least 10 points in the GAD-7 scale, which indicates the presence of signs of Generalized Anxiety. There is a great need to provide Poles with mental support during the COVID-19 pandemic.