الملخص الإنجليزي
Objectives: We sought to examine stressors and coping strategies adopted by Omani adults
during the COVID-19 pandemic and explore the relationships between coping strategies
(avoidant and approach coping) and sociodemographic characteristics. Methods: This
national cross-sectional survey was conducted throughout Oman between September
and December 2020. An online questionnaire was distributed to collect information
concerning sociodemographic characteristics, potential stressors experienced during
the pandemic, and coping strategies. Results: A total of 790 Omani adults submitted
completed questionnaires (response rate 88.4%). High, moderate, and low stress were
reported by 492 (62.3%), 139 (17.6%), and 159 (20.1%) participants, respectively.
Approach coping mechanisms received a higher mean score than avoidant mechanisms
(22.01±6.55 vs. 8.88±4.80). Regarding specific coping strategies, planning had
the highest mean score (5.15±1.31), followed by acceptance (4.95±1.34), religion
(4.56±1.52), and positive reframing (4.28±1.89), while substance use (0.01±0.19) was
the least reported followed by humor (0.86±1.43), denial (0.97±1.56), and behavioral
disengagement (1.02±1.60). Associations were observed between the different coping
strategies and participants' gender, age, marital status, exercise level, and stress level
(p ≤ 0.05). Conclusions: During a large-scale pandemic, the psychological impact on the
general population is significant, even among individuals not infected with the disease.
These results underscore the need for a mental health support system in Oman that can
address the general population's needs. Public education on coping strategies and stress
management may be helpful.
