Gender differences in emotional response to the COVID‐19 outbreak in Spain

Abstract

Objective We aim to explore the differential presence of symptoms of anxiety, depression, and acute stress between men and women during the COVID‐19 outbreak, and to study the relationship between these symptoms and two environmental variables, coexistence, and violence. Methods We conducted a cross‐sectional study starting on March 29 to April 5, 2020, based on a national online survey using snowball sampling techniques. Symptoms of anxiety (Hamilton Anxiety Scale), depression (Beck Depression Inventory), and acute stress (Acute Stress Disorder Inventory) were assessed. Differences in the presence of symptoms and the relationship of coexistence and domestic violence were evaluated from a gender perspective. Results Men showed significant lower mean (SD) in anxiety, depression, and acute stress levels than women [HARS, 14.1 (9.8) versus. 18.4 (10.2), F = 56.2, p < .001; BDI 3.4 (3.9) versus 4.5 (4.3), F = 16.6, p < .001, and ASDI 3.6 (2.9) versus 4.7 (3.1), F = 39.0, p < .001, respectively), as well as a weaker depressive syndrome (28.1% males versus 39.9% females, χ2 = 25.5, p < .001). In addition, an interaction Gender × Coexistence was found in anxiety (F = 56.2, p < .001) and acute stress (F = 3.52, p = .06) and, according to depressive symptoms, an interaction Gender × Violence was found marginally significant (F = 3.3, p = .07). Conclusions Findings indicate that women present greater severity in symptoms of anxiety, depression, and acute stress. Moreover, loneliness and violence specifically worsen the emotional state in women. These results can undoubtedly guide better healthcare planning adopting a gender perspective.

Anxiety and Worries among Pregnant Women during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Multilevel Analysis

“…According to these studies, receiving sufficient information regarding the virus was a protective factor in the appearance of symptoms of depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorders [ 15 ]. However, the use of the Internet (unofficial web-based media) as a source of information during the COVID-19 was significantly associated with poorer psychological well-being and mental health [ 71 , 76 ]. Therefore, the quality of the information received is a key aspect for determining its impact on mental health [ 71 ].…”

Effects of COVID-19 Lockdown on Physical Activity and Dietary Behaviors in Kuwait: A Cross-Sectional Study

“…The ensuing infodemic, social distancing, and disrupted social lives from the pandemic have caused stress, depression, anxiety and mental health problems among people [ 48 , 49 , 50 ]. Research shows that pandemic-related stress, anxiety and depressive symptoms disproportionately affect more females than males [ 51 , 52 , 53 ]. To cope with the stress and anxiety, some people resort to increasing consumption of comfort foods such as chocolates, snacks, and sweets [ 30 , 33 , 54 ].…”

The Psychological Impact of COVID-19 on Healthcare Providers in Obstetrics: A Cross-Sectional Survey Study

“…This result is coherent with a higher level of mental and stress disorders observed during the COVID-19 pandemic among females of the general population. This higher vulnerability of females to experience stress and develop posttraumatic symptoms was explained by differences in stress-response systems and a higher involvement as family caregivers (Mazza et al, 2020;García-Fernández et al, 2021). However, the higher prevalence of anxiety and mood disorders in females is recognized in many epidemiological studies (Kessler et al, 2005).…”