A study in Brain, Behavior, and Immunity points to the risk and protective factors for mental health problems linked to the COVID-19 pandemic. Between March 21 and March 28, 2020, 3,480 residents of Spain ages 18 to 80 completed an online survey that screened for various mental health symptoms. Overall, 19% showed a high level of symptoms for depressive disorder, 22% for generalized anxiety disorder and 16% for post-traumatic stress disorder. Women and younger people were more likely to have symptoms of these mental health conditions than men and older people. Loneliness was a strong predictor for these symptoms, while spiritual well-being was a strong protective factor. Also, those who had symptoms of COVID-19 or had relatives with the disease were more likely to have mental health symptoms. (Monitor on Psychology)

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