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Home > jLPHA > Vol. 4 (2024) > No. 1 (2024)

 

Journal of the Louisiana Public Health Association

Journal of the Louisiana Public Health Association

Abstract

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic negatively affected mental health outcomes. We designed a study to describe the pandemic impacts experienced by adults in Louisiana and examine the characteristics and behaviors associated with them. Methods: 1050 Louisiana residents were surveyed in 2020. A pandemic impact score about respondents’ life experiences was created from 23 items across multiple life domains. Multiple linear regression analysis was conducted to estimate adjusted associations between demographics, health behavior characteristics and changes, and the pandemic impact score. Results: Higher levels of pandemic impacts were associated with being married and having children under 18 years in the home. Changes in health behaviors compared to pre-pandemic were also associated with higher levels of pandemic impacts. Both increases and decreases in sleep, physical activity, meditation, eating, and smoking behaviors were associated with greater impact, while only an increase in drinking alcohol was associated with greater impact. These associations were independent of actual health behaviors. Discussion: Few studies in this area have focused on a general sample of adults. Many people may have used health behaviors as a means of coping with new pandemic lifestyle requirements. Conclusions: Understanding the correlates of pandemic impacts on health will help identify those at risk and contribute toward preventive efforts in future health crises. Future studies should explore whether behavior change mediates the psychological consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic.

DOI

10.59020/08841

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