The impact of pandemic fatigue on anxiety and quality of life in patients attending physical medicine and rehabilitation clinics

Objectives: The current study aims to investigate the impact of pandemic fatigue on anxiety and quality of life in patients visiting physical therapy and rehabilitation outpatient clinics. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 303 patients over the age of 18 who had not previously contracted COVID-19. These patients sought treatment at the Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation outpatient clinic for musculoskeletal disorders and reported experiencing symptoms of pandemic fatigue for at least one month.Results: A low-level positive significant relationship was identified between COVID-19 anxiety and pandemic fatigue. Additionally, perceived health status demonstrated a low-level negative significant relationship with both behavioral fatigues, a sub-dimension of pandemic fatigue, and COVID-19 anxiety. Furthermore, a significant effect of COVID-19 anxiety on pandemic fatigue was observed, as well as a reciprocal significant effect of pandemic fatigue on COVID-19 anxiety. Conclusion: The findings provide empirical evidence for policymakers, decision-makers, and clinicians studying pandemic fatigue and anxiety. It is recommended that stakeholders develop their plans and programs based on this evidence and draw appropriate conclusions from these findings.