A recent survey, presented at Academy at Home 2020, has demonstrated the impact that COVID-19 and its consequent challenges have had on the mental health of eyecare practitioners, staff and optometry students. More than 60 percent of professionals and students reported that their mental health was worsening during the pandemic, and almost 40 percent reported symptoms of anxiety, depression or both during the pandemic.

Researchers identified the top three factors that have negatively impacted mental health:
(1) Worries about family/friends being infected with COVID-19.
(2) Self-worry about being infected with COVID-19.
(3) Social isolation.

Study authors Yi Pang, OD, PhD, professor at the Illinois College of Optometry, and her student Connor Robbs, BS, shared their findings October 7, 2020 during a press conference, noting that outdoor activities, family time and exercise positively impacted mental health. Click here to read the full story from Review of Optometry.


Source: Pang Y, Robbs C, MHOOS Study Group. Impact of COVID-19 pandemic on mental health in eyecare practitioners, staff and optometry students. Presented at Academy at Home 2020, October 7, 2020.