Abstract

Background: Current findings suggest that many people experience high levels of anxiety, depression and life dissatisfaction due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the effects of the pandemic and life changes during the new normal of social restrictions in Turkey are yet to be examined. Aim: This study aimed to investigate the prevalence, correlates and predictors of anxiety, depression and life satisfaction during the new normal of ongoing social restrictions. Methods: This is a cross-sectional study conducted online with 352 participants living in Turkey. Measures included the Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7, Patient Health Questionnaire-9, and Satisfaction with Life Scales. Sociodemographic variables and questions relating to the COVID-19 were collected. Results: The results showed that low social communication and the sense of being restricted were significant predictors of probable depression, anxiety symptoms and life dissatisfaction. Of the participants, 91.5% were dissatisfied with their lives during the new normal of social restrictions. In addition, nearly half of the participants showed depression (55.7%) and generalized anxiety symptoms (54.3%). Conclusion: The present study suggested that social communication might be a key factor to improve psychological wellbeing. Considering the long-term effects of the pandemic on public mental health, developing effective preventive measures and intervention strategies are crucial.

Key words: COVID-19; new normal; depression; anxiety, life satisfaction; social communication