P087 Impact of COVID-19 on mental health of children with cystic fibrosis and their parents

Objectives: The aim of this study was to examine the impact of COVID-19 pandemic on 1) the psychological health of children with cystic fibrosis (CWCF) and their parents and 2) education of CWCF. Methods: A cross-sectional online survey was conducted via SmartSurvey UK for a period of six-to-eight weeks in September/October 2020. The survey was hosted and advertised by CF Ireland via social media platforms (Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp). Results: 123 parents of CWCF responded. Increasing prevalence of issues related to mental health of CWCF was noted with increasing age. The psychological issues in children during the pandemic were mainly stress (33.3%) and anxiety (25.6%). Communicating with loved ones (18.8%) followed by gardening (11.5%) and watching TV (10.4%) were preferred by most parents and children to manage stress. Parents of children >5 years were 2.7 times more willing to send their children to creche/playgroup/school as compared to those with children aged 5 years did not feel peaceful (31.8%) and felt tired (52.4%). Overall, more fathers felt happy (52.6%), peaceful (47.4%) and energetic (57.9, p value = 0.023), and more mothers felt tired (57%). Looking at comparisons by parental age, parents <45 years were more nervous (45.7% vs 20.5%;p value = 0.008) and tired compared to older parents (63.7% vs 41.0%;p value = 0.019). Overall, working parents were relatively happier (53.4% vs 47.4% p value = 0.514), and more energetic (41.4% vs 29.8%;p value = 0.196) compared to parents who were not working. Conclusion: The pandemic has an important effect on mental health through fear and isolation. Increased anxiety and levels of stress were the key mental issues faced by CWCF. Parents of children aged over 5 years were more willing to send their children to school. Younger parents were more likely to feel nervous and tired.