Anxiety, aggression and alcohol consumption over six months among Poles in early adulthood – The follow-up study

Aim of the study There are many studies about mental health during periods of various epidemics. In this study, it was decided to find how the studied parameters changed during six months in 2020. Subject or material and methods A total of 105 results were obtained from respondents who met all inclusion criteria for the study. 84 people (80.00%) are women and 21 (20.00%) are men. The study included socio-demographic parameters and psychological scales: AUDIT — to determine alcohol consumption, GAD-7 — to measure the anxiety and the Buss-Perry Aggression Questionnaire. Results Anxiety levels decreased in the entire study population and some subgroups. Higher levels of anxiety were found among male respondents and health professionals. Increased levels of physical aggression were observed among respondents from small cities. A decrease in hostility was found among rural residents. A decrease in verbal aggression was noticed among those with secondary education. Increased levels of physical aggression were observed only among men, while verbal aggression and hostility were observed among those with secondary education. Higher alcohol consumption occurred among young people. Discussion The literature provides a wealth of data on various aspects of the mental health including aggression, anxiety and alcohol consumption. Our results are mostly in line with these, and show some features of adaptation in society. Conclusions Reductions in anxiety intensity may suggest some adaptive changes in society. Healthcare professionals are characterised by elevated anxiety levels relative to other respondents.