Emotional Distress, Stress, Anxiety and the Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Early Career Women in Healthcare Sciences Research

Abstract

AbstractObjectivesThe main objective of this study was to report stress and anxiety levels during the early period of the pandemic on early career women researchers in health sciences research and determine the factors associated with increased stress and anxiety.MethodsA 50-item self-administered internet questionnaire was developed using a mix of Likert-type scales and open-ended response questions. The survey was distributed via email and social media platforms June 10-August 3, 2020. Anxiety and stress associated with the demands of being in health sciences research as well as personal/family demands were assessed through validated measures (Patient Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS)-Anxiety Short Form and Perceived Stress Scale (PSS)) and open-ended responses.ResultsOne hundred and fifty-one early career women in healthcare sciences research completed the survey. The mean respondent age was 37.3±5.2 years, all had a college degree or higher, 50.3% holding a PhD and 35.8%, M.D. Of the 151 respondents, 128 reported their race/ethnicity and the majority were Caucasian (74.0%). One-third (31.2%) reported being ‘very much’ concerned about reaching their research productivity goals, and 30.1% were ‘very much’ concerned about academic promotion and tenure. Fifty percent reported a ‘moderate’ PROMIS anxiety score and 72.1% reported a ‘moderate’ PSS score. For the open-ended responses, 65.6% reported a worry about their professional goals as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Major concerns revolved around finances, childcare and job security.ConclusionsThroughout the pandemic, early career women investigators have reported high overall stress, anxiety and worries.