Abstract Body

1. Background and purpose

During the COVID-19 pandemic, social distancing measures to prevent transmission of the virus have been implemented in most countries. The effect of these measures on loneliness and depressive symptoms especially for vulnerable groups remained unclear. Research questions: How are levels of loneliness and depressive symptoms during the COVID-19 pandemic measures in Germany? Do lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, inter and asexual (LGBTIA) persons show higher levels of loneliness as compared to the cis-heterosexual persons?

2. Methods

We conducted an online survey in two waves (March/April 2020 and January/February 2021). Loneliness was measured by the De Jong Gierveld short scale. The survey contained additionally self-categorizations regarding sexual orientation and identity, questions on social contacts, depressive symptoms and health care. Descriptive and regression analysis was conducted using R.

3. Results

2641 participants from across Germany took part in first wave of the survey and 4143 participants in the second wave. The proportion of lonely people increased from the first to the second wave. Risk factors for loneliness were being without partner, living alone, not working and being LGBTIA. Especially, asexual, trans and non-binary persons had a strongly increased risk for loneliness (52% resp. 49% resp. 48%). Loneliness was associated with depressive symptoms.

4. Conclusions

The results are in line with minority stress models, however, it remains unclear if loneliness in asexual and trans person is in general increased or due to the measures. GPs should be aware of the sexual orientation and gender identity of their patients. GPs should not hesitate to ask patients from risk groups for loneliness.