Disparities and protective factors in pandemic-related mental health outcomes: a Louisiana-based study.

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a wide-ranging impact on mental health. Diverse populations experienced the pandemic differently, highlighting pre-existing inequalities and creating new challenges in recovery. Understanding the effects across diverse populations and identifying protective factors is crucial for guiding future pandemic preparedness. The objectives of this study were to (1) describe the specific COVID-19-related impacts associated with general well-being, (2) identify protective factors associated with better mental health outcomes, and (3) assess racial disparities in pandemic impact and protective factors. A cross-sectional survey of Louisiana residents was conducted in summer 2020, yielding a sample of 986 Black and White adults. The exposure was overall pandemic impact, measured using the Epidemic-Pandemic Impacts Inventory, and the outcome was general well-being (GWB), measured with the General Well-Being Schedule. Potential protective factors included social support, resilience, and social cohesion. Linear regression models were constructed to examine the association between pandemic impact and GWB, with each protective factor added as an effect modifier. These relationships were further assessed for differences by race. Pandemic stressors can be grouped into social, health, work, finance, and family-related impacts. Black persons displayed higher levels of pandemic impact as well as lower levels of social support, resilience, and social cohesion ( This study emphasizes the importance of psychosocial resources in buffering the mental health impact of pandemics. It also suggests greater vulnerability for marginalized communities lacking access to crucial support systems. Findings underscore the need for targeted interventions that bolster access to social support, promote resilience, and strengthen social cohesion, particularly within minority groups. Additionally, policymakers should consider proactive measures to assist in recovery and mitigate the disproportionate impact of future crises on vulnerable populations.

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Copyright © 2024 Rung, Oral, Prusisz and Peters.

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The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest.