[2020 National Assembly Audit] 4 out of 10 COVID-19 Medical Staff Experience 'Depression'

[Asia Economy Reporter Cho Hyun-ui] Among medical personnel treating COVID-19, 4 out of 10 suffer from depression, but it has been pointed out that psychological recovery support for them is insufficient.

According to the results of a survey by the National Trauma Center received by National Assembly Health and Welfare Committee member Choi Yeon-sook (People's Party) from the Ministry of Health and Welfare on the 8th, among 319 COVID-19 medical personnel respondents, 158 (49.5%, multiple responses allowed) reported having physical symptoms.

132 people (41.3%) reported feeling depressed. 90 people (28.2%) experienced post-traumatic stress, 72 people (22.6%) complained of anxiety, and 9 people (2.8%) were found to be at risk of suicide.

When comparing mental health status by occupation, nurses showed higher levels than other occupations in all symptoms including post-traumatic stress, physical symptoms, suicide risk, depression, and anxiety. Emotional exhaustion levels were also higher among nurses compared to other occupations.

However, it was confirmed that there were no counseling records for COVID-19 response medical personnel at the National Trauma Center.

Looking at the regional distribution of 549 COVID-19 response medical personnel who participated in the National Trauma Center's burnout management program, Seoul had 377 participants, Daegu 121, Gyeonggi 32, and Gyeongnam 19. The proportion of medical personnel from the Seoul area was 68.7%, indicating that medical personnel from across the country did not participate evenly.

Representative Choi said, "Medical personnel, who are the main actors of K-quarantine, are found to have serious physical and mental problems, but the government's support measures are too negligent," and added, "Medical personnel should be able to receive psychological evaluations and counseling support."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.