New research on the effect of COVID-19 on the mental health of the population

New research findings regarding the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in Cyprus and its effects on the mental health of the population


The aim of the current study was to examine the effect of the first wave of COVID-19 pandemic (March-July 2020) on mental health of Cypriot citizens. The results of the study showed that (a) females as compared to males experience higher levels of anxiety, stress, fear, worry, and despair and are more likely to undertake protective measures, (b) older individuals and those who live in urban areas perceive greater social support and interest in the emotional experience of significant others, (c) emotional distress and support and interest in self and others are associated with all other variables, indicating the importance of these constructs to the experience of a pandemic, and (d) there was a decrease in participants’ concern after the end of the first wave of the pandemic. These were the conclusions of the new study of the Department of Psychology of Neapolis University in Cyprus entitled “The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on mental health: Evidence from Cyprus”, which was published in the scientific journal “International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health”.

This research is part of the framework of social activities carried out by Neapolis University in Cyprus. The research team that lead the research consisted of the following academics: Dr. Marilena Mousoulidou Lecturer in Cognitive Psychology, Dr. Michailina Siakalli Lecturer in Statistics, Dr. Andri Christodoulou Director of the Counseling Center for Research and Psychological Services (SKEPSI) of Neapolis University in Cyprus, and Dr. Marios Argyrides Associate Professor in Counseling Psychology, Registered Counseling Psychologist, and Head of the Department of Psychology of Neapolis University in Cyprus.

The present research results can be accessed using the following link:

https://www.mdpi.com/1660-4601/18/8/3868

Neapolis University Pafos
2 Danais Avenue
8042, Pafos
Cyprus

Neapolis University Pafos (NUP) is one of the leading private Universities of Cyprus. Established in 2010, NUP, is a vibrant academic institution with emphasis in the provision of high-quality Higher Education and the creation of cutting-edge applied knowledge, focusing, in parallel, on the provision of optimal academic services to its academic community and the broader society, at a national as well as at an international level.

Under the leadership of its Chairman, Mr. George M. Leptos, the strategic goal and vision of the late founder of Neapolis University Mr. Michalakis G. Leptos, is to develop a human-centered educational organization of international quality standards, of heightened social responsibility and of excellent academic practices. NUP aims to contribute: to social cohesion and evolution; to the progression of science via processes of interactive and innovative learning pedagogies and the development of research; and the development of high-level new scientists and professionals of contemporary fields of knowledge.

Through the new and updated Study Programmes of Neapolis University Pafos, the program curricula of NUP promote the appreciation of cutting -edge knowledge and research, and create greater potential and opportunities in the new industries. NUP Degrees offer students relevant knowledge and the appropriate skills and competencies for their smooth and successful integration in cutting-edge jobs of 4th IR and 21th century.