Resilience mediates the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on mental health in a sample of adults in Panama

• DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1235935
• Publication Date: 2023-11-16T14:20:38Z
• Authors: Diana C. Oviedo; Adam E. Tratner; María Sofía Pinzón; Sofía Rodríguez-A...; Elianne Pauli-Quirós; Carlos Chavarría; Camilo Posada Rod...; Gabrielle B. Britton
• Keywords: Pandemic; Resilience; 2019-20 coronavirus outbreak; Panama; Sample (material)

The COVID-19 pandemic was characterized by global increases in depression, anxiety, and stress symptoms. Previous studies have shown that resilience mitigates these symptoms, however there is limited research exploring the link between mental illness during Central America. To examine role of as it relates to perceived effect on health A sample 480 adults Panama were recruited from March May 2021 complete an online survey. survey consisted sociodemographic questions scale measures assessing anxiety resilience, social support. Results indicated mediated relationship symptoms; participants who felt more personally affected reported symptoms via decreased resilience. Further analyses revealed moderated sex support, showing indirect greater for women individuals low These findings contribute a growing body documenting adverse effects reveal potential mechanisms through which pandemic-related distress decreases thereby increasing illness.