Alcohol Consumption, Loneliness, Quality of Life, Social Media Usage and General Anxiety before and during the COVID-19 Pandemic in Singapore

Abstract

This cross-sectional study aims to identify factors associated with anxiety levels of adults living in Singapore before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Data were collected using a web-based survey conducted from July to November 2020, accruing 264 eligible participants. Ordered logistic regression was used to assess factors associated with Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7), ranked as minimal (0–4), mild (5–9), moderate (10–14), and severe (15–21) before and during the pandemic. About 74% of participants were female, 50% were aged 25–34, and 50% were married. The GAD-7 level went up from the pre-pandemic for moderate (12.5% to 16%) and severe GAD (2% to 11%). Alcohol consumption (AOR 1.79, 95% CI 1.04–3.06), loneliness (AOR 1.28, 95% CI 1.05–1.54), and difficulty in switching off social media (AOR 2.21, 95% CI 1.29–3.79) predicted increased GAD-7 levels. The quality of life (AOR 0.84, 95% CI 0.79–0.90) was significantly associated with decreased GAD-7 levels. The results heighten the awareness that early initiation of mental health support is crucial for the population in addition to the various financial support measures provided by the government as they are adapting to live with the COVID-19 pandemic.