Impact of COVID-19 on the mental health in a cohort of Italian Rehabilitation health care workers

COVID-19 pandemic has had a strong impact on health care workers (HCWs), affecting their physical and mental health. In Italy, HCWs have been among the first exposed to an unprecedented pressure, dealing with large numbers of infections during the first pandemic wave. However, the severe psychological consequences on HCWs find little evidence in literature, especially in terms of comparison to the status quo ante pandemic. Aim of this study was to provide an assessment of the mental health burden in a cohort of Italian HCWs during COVID-19 pandemic, comparing their condition with that before the emergency, to direct the promotion of mental well-being among HCWs worldwide.