The Psychological Effects of COVID-19 During the Period of Isolation and Quarantine

Although quarantine is a useful strategy for preventing the spread of COVID-19, it is crucial to consider its disadvantages as well, because it can seriously harm the psychological well-being of both the individuals placed under quarantine and a sizeable number of people who are directly or indirectly related to them. A study was carried out to investigate the psychological implications of being placed under quarantine. Participants, who had been placed in either isolation or quarantine, were older than 18 years. Eligible participants were identified from the hospital's records of COVID-19 contacts (quarantine) and cases (isolation). Questionnaires were used to gather information on anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder and perceived stress. Individuals who were isolated or quarantined expressed feelings of hopelessness, embarrassment and mild discomfort. There is an urgent need for psychological treatments that identify and target individuals with different degrees of anxiety or depression.