This study compared COVID-19-related stress, fear of infection, loneliness, and depression between schizophrenia patients and the general population. A face-to-face survey (n=1340 schizophrenia patients) and an online survey (n=2000 general population) were conducted. Structural equation modeling showed a significant effect of COVID-19 infection fear on general population depression and on schizophrenia patient loneliness. Loneliness exacerbated depression in both groups. Loneliness partially mediated the stress-depression pathway and fully mediated the fear-depression pathway in schizophrenia patients. Loneliness's impact was greater in schizophrenia patients. Different mental health interventions are needed for schizophrenia patients during the pandemic, focusing on social support to prevent loneliness and depression.

Yu-Ri Lee, Young-Chul Chung, Jung Jin Kim, Shi Hyun Kang, Bong Ju Lee, Seung-Hwan Lee, Jonghun Lee, Ha-Ran Jung, Jinhee Hyun, Min Jhon, Ju-Wan Kim, Seunghyong Ryu, Ju-Yeon Lee, Jae-Min Kim, Sung-Wan Kim