Investigation of perceived anxiety and stress in the initial stage of the COVID-19 outbreak in the south of Kerman: a Cross-Sectional Study

Introduction: The high prevalence of COVID-19 and the spread of misinformation about the prevention and treatment of the disease around the world, in addition to economic and health effects, have created a wave of stress and anxiety among people. The aim of this study was to determine the level of stress and anxiety in the early stages of COVID-19 in people in the southern region of Kerman. Materials and Methods: The present study is a cross-sectional study that was conducted in April 2020 among 448 residents of southern Kerman province. Data collection tools included demographic questionnaire, standardized situational-characteristic anxiety questionnaire, and Cohen's perceived stress questionnaire. Data were analyzed using spss18 software Results:  A total of 448 residents with a mean age of 33.62±9.03 participated in this study. The mean score of stress among them was 26.07±7.64 and their mean score of anxiety was 102.88±5.44. Between mean stress score with gender (p=0.001), place of residence (p=0.002), level of education (p=0.03), job (p=0.009), income (p=0.001) and social support (P=0.001) and anxiety were significantly associated with the duration of quarantine at home (p=0.003) and job (p=0.01). Conclusion: Considering the moderate level of stress and anxiety among residents of southern Kerman in the face of COVID-19, it seems that in the current situation, paying immediate attention to the mental health of rural residents and low-income people through education, counseling and personal protective equipment could be effective in preventing and controlling coronavirus