Mental health in COVID-19 Delta variant survivors and healthcare workers during the 2021 outbreak in Nanjing, China: a cross-sectional study

Since the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) Delta variant was discovered in India in October 2020, it has rapidly triggered a second outbreak globally. However, the effects of the COVID-19 Delta variant on mental health in survivors and healthcare workers are unclear. The aim of this study is to assess mental health among the COVID-19 Delta variant survivors and healthcare workers, and analyze the possible impact factors. This survey-based, cross-sectional study used the Symptom Check List-90 Revised questionnaire to evaluate psychological status among 60 COVID-19 Delta variant survivors, 162 nurses, and 72 hygienists in Nanjing, China. Three indices and nine dimensions were compared for job, education level, gender, age, and marriage classification. Data were analyzed using SPSS 25.0. Mental distress among participants was not very serious in general. The survivors presented the highest score, followed by the hygienists, and the lowest score was in nurses. Low-educated individuals and women showed significant increase. No significant difference was noted in age and marriage classification. In this survey study of COVID-19 Delta variant survivors and healthcare workers in Nanjing, China, the survivors needed psychological support immediately. Meanwhile, healthcare workers warranted more attention, especially the lower education levels and women. A comprehensive emergency response plan was warranted.