BACKGROUND:
The pandemics, has threatened not only physiological health but also mental health due to both the direct effects of the infection and its psychosocial and economic impacts. The aim of this study is to determine the anxiety and depression levels of adult inpatients diagnosed with COVID-19, to reveal their relationship with various psychosocial and economic factors, and to determine the frequency and knowledge of online/telephone-based mental health services utilization.

METHODS:
The population of this cross-sectional study consisted of COVID-19 patients hospitalized at a university hospital in Istanbul. Data were collected between June and November 2021. The minimum sample size was calculated as 255 individuals, assuming an estimated depression prevalence of 21%, a power of 80%, a margin of error of 5%, and a design effect of 1. Patients' anxiety and depression risks were assessed using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HAD).

RESULTS:
The mean age of the participants was 48.7±12.3 years. Of the 305 patients participating in the study, 16.1% were at high risk for anxiety, and 34.8% were at high risk for depression. Providing for one's own income was 3.0 times (95% CI 1.147-7.896), having a past diagnosis of psychiatric illness was 4.1 times (95% CI 1.902-9.003), and needing psychiatric support during the pandemic was 3.1 times (95% CI 1.529-6.099) higher risk for anxiety. Providing for one's own income was 2.0 times (95% CI 1.221-3.344) and needing psychiatric support during the pandemic was 2.2 times (95% CI 1.351-3.736) higher risk for depression.

CONCLUSIONS:
Pandemics can cause mental health disorders in addition to its negative effects on physical health. It is crucial to increase online mental health support services, raise public awareness, and implement these services effectively, ensuring regular follow-up for individuals with risk factors.