The association between COVID-19 diagnosis or having symptoms and anxiety among Canadians: A repeated cross-sectional study

Background The mental health effects of being diagnosed with COVID-19 are unknown. The present study examined whether individuals or those with someone close to them with a COVID-19 diagnosis differentially experienced anxiety during the pandemic. Methods Four web-based repeated cross-sectional surveys were conducted among Canadians aged 18 and older (n = 4015) regarding the impact of COVID-19 on mental health between May 8th and July 14th, 2020. Data on sociodemographic, COVID-19 symptoms/diagnoses for self or someone close, and anxiety were collected. Multiple logistic regression analyses were performed controlling for potential confounders. Results Anxiety among individuals affected by the pandemic remained stable over time. Individuals or those with someone close diagnosed with COVID-19 had greater odds of having anxiety (OR = 1.55; 95%CI 1.12, 2.14) compared to those who had not been diagnosed (self or close other) with COVID-19. Individuals or those with someone close to them who had symptoms of COVID-19 had greater odds of having anxiety (OR = 2.08; 95%CI 1.51, 2.87) compared to those who did not report symptoms (self or close other). Conclusions This evidence highlights the importance of targeted psychosocial interventions for those directly impacted by the COVID-19 virus.