On the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on mental health in Egypt: Penalized regression approach

Abstract

This study aims to explore the factors that affected mental health status during the COVID-19 pandemic, coupled with providing a detailed assessment of the effects of the negative economic repercussions, specifically food insecurity, changes in job activity and income levels, fear and anxiety, and strategies for coping with the pandemic. In addition, the study sheds light on how assistance provided by government agencies and non-governmental organizations enhances the mental health of individuals. The study draws upon data gathered through a survey conducted by the Economic Research Forum in Egypt during the pandemic. Using the penalized regression models, the current study showed that food insecurity, low household income, anxiety about the economic situation, and severe coping strategies for economic hardship were the primary drivers of mental health during the pandemic. In addition, some socio-demographic variables such as age, gender and place of residence played clear influences on mental health status during the pandemic. We must direct our attention and resources towards those vulnerable groups who have endured most of the mental health toll caused by the pandemic. They are in urgent need of emotional counseling and financial assistance to navigate and heal from this crisis.