Patients’ Perceptions of the Increase in Severity of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder Symptoms during the COVID-19 Pandemic

Authors : Sevgi Köroğlu, Çiğdem Şen Tepe, Gülgün Durat

Pages : 510-517

Doi:10.26453/otjhs.1337917

View : 58 | Download : 86

Publication Date : 2023-12-18

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :Objective: This study aimed to examine how patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder perceived changes in their symptoms during the COVID-19 pandemic and what factors influenced those changes. Materials and Methods: The sample of the study consists of 262 individuals diagnosed with obsessive-compulsive who were reached through social media between 08.04.2021 and 08.10.2021. A descriptive information form and a 41-item questionnaire based on the Padua Inventory were used to collect the data. Results: During the pandemic, anxiety about not being able to access cleaning products and doctors/therapists was high in the patients who reported a rise in disease symptoms. During the pandemic, 79% of the sample reported an increase in symptoms of obsessive-compulsive disorder. Conclusion: It is essential to conduct regular screenings of patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder by the psychiatric nurses in the rehabilitation services team. These patients should be encouraged to express their concerns, and any psychological stress or distress should be identified. When necessary, patients should be referred to secondary care services for further assistance.
Keywords : Anksiyete, COVID 19, obsesif kompulsif bozukluk, padua envanteri