Determine the Mental Health and Quality of Life of Karachi Residents During the COVID-19 Pandemic.

Abstract

The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic has affected the world's economy, way of life, and physical and mental health. This study aims to compare the mental health status of the general population of Karachi during the pandemic. The COVID-19 pandemic has raised the general population's concern and fear regarding its control and the spread of infection. We examined the perspectives and attitudes of the participants of Karachi towards their mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic, keeping in mind the relevance of the current context. We conducted a qualitative and quantitative questionnaire survey study using a purposive sampling approach, at participants of Karachi, Pakistan. Questionnaire survey was conducted with participants including, young adults, middle-aged adults and older adults of both genders. Study data were analysed using MS Excel 2010 in terms of percentages, and conclusions were derived from the results. A variety of graphs, such as bar charts, were also employed to clearly concentrate the situation. Participants generally experienced greater worry and panic due to the infectious nature of the infection. In addition to increasing participants' psychological discomfort, the pandemic's social and economic implications have also contributed to this effect. Nonetheless, participants were able to identify a number of coping techniques, such as connecting with family and friends, attending mental health sessions, and resetting lives through engaging in different activities such as relaxation and exercise.