The Prevalence and Factors Affecting Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Amongst Healthcare Professionals in India During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Narrative Literature Review

Abstract

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in a multitude of challenges for the healthcare fraternity which contributed to fatigue, burnout, stress, despair, anxiety, and psychological distress among healthcare professionals leading to Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). This narrative review aims to determine the incidence of PTSD among healthcare professionals in India, identify its causes, and propose strategies to address this issue.

Methods: A comprehensive search of published and grey literature was conducted using search engines, followed by the identification of relevant articles and a narrative synthesis of the gathered materials. 

Results: The review reveals that healthcare professionals experienced significantly high levels of stress and were more likely to exhibit symptoms of probable or confirmed PTSD. Many healthcare professionals emphasized the urgent need for frequent counselling sessions during the pandemic.

Conclusion: Our study emphasizes the importance of developing targeted educational interventions that include counselling services and treatment plans involving psychiatrists specifically focused on at-risk healthcare professionals.