International survey of audiologists during the COVID-19 pandemic : effects on mental well-being of audiologists

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Date

Authors

Bennett, Rebecca J.
Manchaiah, Vinaya
Eikelboom, Robert H.
Badcock, Johanna C.
Swanepoel, De Wet

Journal Title

Journal ISSN

Volume Title

Publisher

Taylor and Francis

Abstract

OBJECTIVE : The aim of the study was to examine the mental well-being of audiologists in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. DESIGN : A cross-sectional online survey was conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic, between 23 June and 13 August 2020. A self-report survey included screening measures for psychological distress (PHQ-4: anxiety and depression) and loneliness (UCLA-3). STUDY SAMPLE : 239 audiologists from around the world. RESULTS : The prevalence of psychological distress was 12.1% (subscales for anxiety 16.3% and depression 10.4%), and loneliness 32.2%. Depression and loneliness were higher in those participants self-reporting perceived job insecurity, with psychological distress (anxiety and depression) higher in those from South Africa. Accessibility to Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) appears to be a protective factor. CONCLUSIONS : Well-being interventions, such as EAPS, are needed to support audiologists during challenging times like the COVID-19 pandemic.

Description

Appendix 1: Respondent’s country of residence

Keywords

Psychological well-being, Depression, Anxiety, Loneliness, Audiologist, Audiology

Sustainable Development Goals

Citation

Rebecca J. Bennett, Vinay Manchaiah, Robert H. Eikelboom, Johanna C. Badcock & De Wet Swanapoel (2022) International survey of audiologists during the COVID-19 pandemic: effects on mental well-being of audiologists, International Journal of Audiology, 61:4, 273-282, DOI: 10.1080/14992027.2021.1944675.