Background: The COVID-19 pandemic posed significant challenges to healthcare systems globally. Iranian healthcare workers faced increased psychological stress and workplace changes. This study aimed to identify factors influencing anxiety, depression, and health anxiety among Iranian healthcare workers during the pandemic.
Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in March 2020 among healthcare workers at public and private hospitals and COVID-19 clinics across six southern provinces of Iran. Convenience sampling was used. Data were collected via an online questionnaire including demographics, the Short Health Anxiety Inventory (SHAI), and the Modified Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). Logistic regression identified predictors of COVID-19-related anxiety, depression, and health anxiety.
Results: Among 308 participants, 85.1% were female and 53.9% were under 30 years old. Most were married (64%) and 42.9% had children. Marriage significantly increased the odds of severe depression (OR=1.84; 95% CI: 1.01–3.31; p=0.04) and severe anxiety (OR=1.99; 95% CI: 1.10–3.40; p=0.01). Having children also raised the risk of severe depression (OR = 2.56; 95% CI: 1.33–4.92). Experiencing COVID-19 symptoms was strongly linked to higher odds of depression (OR = 4.05; p = 0.023) and anxiety (OR = 2.74; p = 0.04). Regular or occasional exercise significantly reduced levels of anxiety (p < 0.001) and depression (p=0.03). Increased health anxiety was associated with greater concern about coronavirus, less exercise, working in COVID-19 wards, chronic illness, and temporary employment (p<0.05).
Conclusion: Marital status, having children, COVID-19 symptoms, and exercise habits significantly influenced anxiety, depression, and health anxiety among Iranian healthcare workers. Promoting healthy behaviors and targeted mental health support are crucial to safeguarding healthcare workers during public health crises.