Anxiety, Depression, and Associated Factors among Teachers during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Multi-Centre Cross-Sectional Study in Zambia

Abstract

Background: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic inflicted unprecedented work-related strain, negatively impacting the mental health of many, including teachers. This study assessed the impact of COVID-19 on the mental health of secondary school teachers in Lusaka, Zambia. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted among 388 teachers in selected secondary schools in Lusaka district, Zambia, from July 2022 to September 2022. Data were collected using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) and analysed using IBM SPSS version 28.0. Statistical significance was determined at a 95% confidence level. Logistic regression was used to determine the factors that influenced anxiety and depression levels among teachers. Results: Among the 388 teachers, the prevalence of anxiety and depression was 72% and 73%, respectively. Factors associated with anxiety were; being quarantined due to COVID-19 (AOR = 1.96, 95% CI: 1.11 -3.45), having a chronic condition (AOR = 2.45, 95% CI: 1.19 -5.05), having a friend or relative with COVID-19 (AOR = 1.8, 95% CI: 1.08 -2.99) and expe-