Peritraumatic Reactions Related to the COVID-19 Pandemic Among the Tunisian General Population

Abstract

This is the first study to explore factors associated with peritraumatic reactions experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic among the Tunisian general population. A web-based survey was conducted between 23 March and 5 May 2020, so that 1615 responses were included. We used the Peritraumatic Distress Inventory and Peritraumatic Dissociative Experiences Questionnaire. Participants with a medical history, those undergoing compulsory quarantine and those having relatives affected by or dying from COVID-19 were significantly more likely to present higher Peritraumatic Distress Inventory and Peritraumatic Dissociative Experiences Questionnaire scores. Factors associated with higher levels of peritraumatic reactions should be targeted by national programs to prioritize assistance through early psychological interventions.