Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Among Qatari Parents During the Pandemic

This study assesses the prevalence of depression, anxiety, and stress among Qatari parents during the pandemic lockdown. A valid and reliable questionnaire was distributed online, via social media sites, phone, and emails to recruit Qatari parents or caregivers of children under 18 years old in Qatar. A total of 2318 parents participated in the study, where the majority were females, married, and employed full time, with a bachelor’s degree or higher, and had two children or more. In multiple regression analyses, depression, anxiety, and stress were significantly predicted based on gender, family structure, having more children at home, unemployment, and parental health status. Mothers were more likely to have depression, anxiety, and stress symptoms. Multigenerational families living together under one roof were likely to be associated with lower levels of psychological distress during the lockdown. Given the high prevalence of parental psychological distress during the initial lockdown, restructuring mental health services and psychosocial support services are recommended in Qatar.