Abstract
BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted global mental health. Iran, with its high infection rates and prolonged restrictions, faced a notable increase in mental health issues. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of mental disorders during and after the COVID-19 pandemic among residents of eastern Iran and identify associated factors. METHODS: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted on 800 residents of Torbat Heydariyeh using random sampling. Data were collected through home interviews between June 2020 and June 2023. Mental health was assessed using the General Health Questionnaire-28 (GHQ-28), with demographic data collected through a structured form. Statistical analyses included independent t-tests, ANOVA, chi-square tests, and logistic regression, with a significance threshold of p ≤ 0.05. RESULTS: The prevalence of mental disorders was significantly higher during the pandemic (40.0%) compared to the post COVID-19 period (27.5%) (p < 0.001). Gender, economic status, and medical history were major determinants of mental health during the pandemic. Women (AOR = 1.92, 95% CI = 1.37-2.68), individuals with poor economic status (AOR = 2.34, 95% CI = 1.46-3.76), and those with a history of illness (AOR = 1.88, 95% CI = 1.21-2.92) had significantly higher odds of experiencing mental disorders. post COVID-19 period, economic status remained the only significant factor (AOR = 1.79, 95% CI = 1.22-2.63). CONCLUSIONS: This study highlights significant and enduring psychological impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly among socioeconomically disadvantaged groups. Interventions focusing on economic support and targeted mental health strategies are critical to mitigating long-term effects.