Food Insecurity Is Associated with Depression, Anxiety, and Stress: Evidence from the Early Days of the COVID-19 Pandemic in the United States.

ABSTRACT: Purpose: To understand associations between food insecurity and depression, anxiety, and stress during the COVID-19 pandemic among low-income adults in the United States. Methods: During March 19-24, 2020, we fielded a national, web-based survey (53% response rate) among low-income adults (<250% of the federal poverty line) in the United States (N=1,476). Food security status was measured using the 18-question USDA Household Food Security Module. Multivariable-adjusted logistic regression models examined the association between food insecurity and psychological distress outcomes and COVID-19-specific worries. Qualitative data from an open-response question were also analyzed. Results: More than one-third of low-income adults screened positive for depression (33%

SUBMITTER: Wolfson JA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7929913 | biostudies-literature | 2021

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature