Background: During coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, workers in the healthcare sector are experiencing high workload, making them susceptible to psychological illness.Purpose: This study aimed to explore the influence of COVID-19 outbreak on the depressive symptoms and quality of life among health workers (HWs) in Saudi Arabia.Methods: In this cross-sectional study, the psychological impact and quality of life were assessed using Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) and Quality-of-Life Enjoyment and Satisfaction Questionnaire (Q-LES-Q). Results: A total of 151 HWs participated in the study, from which 80 participants completed the survey (response rate: 53%). Females (85.5%) were predominantly higher than males (14.5%). Minimal to mild depressive symptoms were observed in about 47%, whereas only 11.25% of health workers had severe depressive symptoms. Females had lower PHQ-9 scores compared to males. The occurrence of moderately severe to severe depression in medical HWs was more than two folds compared to non-medical workers (26.5% and 12.9%, respectively). Around 73% of HWs had a Q-LES-Q score above 50%, which indicates moderate to high quality of life. The younger participants had a lower quality of life. Similar scores of Q-LES-Q were reported in both females and males.Conclusion: Throughout the pandemics, mental status and quality of life of workers in the healthcare sector can be affected. During COVID-19 outbreak, moderately severe to severe depressive symptoms were seen in 21.3% of HWs in Saudi Arabia. Additionally, 27.5% had lower quality of life. Longitudinal studies are needed to determine variable changes over time. Recognizing the psychological impact of COVID-19 pandemic can guide policymakers to tailor interventions that support the most vulnerable workers.

College of Pharmacy Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University Riyadh Saudi Arabia

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