The COVID-19 pandemic has had far-reaching consequences on mental health, cognitive abilities, and physical well-being, affecting both those directly infected and their close contacts. A systematic review by Blendermann et al. (2023) revealed increased symptoms of anxiety and depression during the pandemic, especially among children and adolescents. Meanwhile, an NIH-backed study emphasized the importance of trauma-informed programs, like the RAP Club, to foster resilience among students during these challenging times. Research across four countries highlighted the heightened symptoms of depression and anxiety among family and friends of severely ill COVID-19 patients.

Van Houwelingen's team (2023) offered insights into the similarities in mental and physical outcomes post-ICU treatment, irrespective of a COVID-19 diagnosis. Additionally, a significant discovery by Taquet et al. (2023) connected two blood biomarkers to potential cognitive deficits post-COVID-19. A study on patients post-intensive care revealed enduring physical and mental health challenges, particularly among those requiring prolonged invasive mechanical ventilation.

The psychological and neuropsychological implications of the COVID-19 pandemic have emerged as critical areas of concern in recent research. A study from the Tianjin Mental Health Institute highlighted significant gender disparities in depression rates among Omicron-infected patients in China, with men showcasing a notably higher prevalence. Boston Children's Hospital's research revealed alarming neurological irregularities in children with a history of Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C), suggesting potential long-term repercussions. In response to the broad spectrum of post-infection syndromes, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) has provided guidelines to identify mental health symptoms linked with long COVID, emphasizing the importance of recognizing such manifestations in primary care settings.

The societal lockdown measures have also impacted behavioral aspects, with a study from France demonstrating a surge in emotional overeating among female university students. Families of patients suffering from acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) due to COVID-19 displayed a marked decrease in PTSD symptoms over a year, as reported in a JAMA publication. Lastly, the emotional challenges faced by expectant fathers during the pandemic era were brought to light, emphasizing the significance of prenatal attachment and well-being during these tumultuous times.

Collectively, these studies underscore the multifaceted impacts of the pandemic and the imperative for holistic health interventions. These varied investigations also underscore the pervasive mental and emotional challenges stemming from the pandemic, affecting diverse demographics and facets of human life.

Mental health problems during COVID highly variable by symptom cluster and population group: Study

Reference: Mary Blendermann et al. (2023). A narrative systematic review of changes in mental health symptoms from before to during the COVID-19 pandemic. Psychological Medicine. DOI: 10.1017/S0033291723002295. Provided by Leiden University.

This article discusses a systematic review of longitudinal studies investigating changes in mental health symptoms from before to during the first eighteen months of the COVID-19 pandemic. Unlike most studies that began their research only during the pandemic, this review focused on studies that were tracking their population even before COVID-19 emerged. Of the nearly 10,000 studies found, only 97 met the inclusion criteria for the review. The results were intricate and varied, showing that mental health problems are multifaceted. A clear increase in symptoms was noted in the domains of anxiety and depression. Obsessive-compulsive disorder symptoms, especially those related to washing-checking, saw a significant rise. Contrarily, people with pre-existing mental disorders did not have a disproportionate surge in symptoms, except in the obsessive-compulsive domain. Children and adolescents displayed the most pronounced symptom increases. Interestingly, some studies, like one with Chinese undergraduates, showed a decline in symptoms. The researchers emphasized the importance of considering variability in symptom response when designing future studies and interventions.

A Mental Wellness Project Supports Students During COVID-19

Reference: National Institutes of Health. (2023, August 30). A Mental Wellness Project Supports Students During COVID-19. COVID-19 Research. https://covid19.nih.gov/news-and-stories/mental-health-project-supports-students-covid-19

Researchers collaborated with students in Baltimore, predominantly from under-resourced communities, to study student resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic. Middle school is often challenging, and these challenges were compounded for students from low-income families of color during the pandemic. The study, backed by NIH's Office of the Director, revisited high school students who were part of a previous randomized controlled study during their eighth grade. This study looked at the effectiveness of a trauma-informed program called RAP Club in promoting student mental health. RAP Club, which stands for Relax, be Aware, and do a Personal rating, was found to give students resilience during the pandemic compared to a control group. The program teaches students mindfulness techniques to observe their emotional states and cope with emotions effectively. Mendelson, a key researcher, emphasized the importance of addressing the mental health needs of young people, especially during challenging times such as the pandemic. The RAP Club program began before 2010 and was adjusted over time to best serve the students' needs. The overarching goal is to transition the RAP Club program from research to practice by training school personnel to deliver the program effectively, making it scalable to more schools in Baltimore and beyond.

Elevated symptoms of depression and anxiety among family members and friends of critically ill COVID-19 patients – an observational study of five cohorts across four countries

Reference: Lovik, A., González-Hijón, J., Hoffart, A., Fawns-Ritchie, C., Magnúsdóttir, I., & Lu, L. (2023). Elevated symptoms of depression and anxiety among family members and friends of critically ill COVID-19 patients – an observational study of five cohorts across four countries. Lancet Psychiatry. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.lanepe.2023.100733.

This observational study analyzed the mental health impact on family members and close friends of COVID-19 patients across five cohorts in four countries: Iceland, Norway, Sweden, and the UK. Data collected from March 2020 to March 2022 revealed that individuals who had a significant person (family member or close friend) with COVID-19 showed elevated symptoms of depression and anxiety. The severity of these symptoms was directly proportional to the severity of the COVID-19 condition in the significant person. Specifically, the prevalence ratios (PRs) for depression and anxiety were higher if the patient was hospitalized, admitted to the ICU, or died. The study found that the elevated levels of depression and anxiety persisted for an entire year after the COVID-19 diagnosis in the significant person. The implications suggest that family members and friends of severe COVID-19 patients might require enhanced mental health monitoring during and after future pandemics.

Mental, Cognitive, and Physical Outcomes after Intensive Care Unit Treatment during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Comparison Between COVID-19 and Non-COVID-19 Patients

Reference: van Houwelingen, F., van Dellen, E., Visser-Meily, J.M.A., & et al. (2023). Mental, cognitive and physical outcomes after intensive care unit treatment during the COVID-19 pandemic: A comparison between COVID-19 and non-COVID-19 patients. Sci Rep, 13, 14414. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-023-41667-4

A study by Fedor van Houwelingen and team compared the mental, cognitive, and physical outcomes of 209 ICU survivors during the COVID-19 pandemic, with 141 having had COVID-19. Their findings revealed no significant mental differences between COVID-19 and non-COVID-19 patients or their 168 relatives 3-6 months post-ICU. While COVID-19 patients displayed lower anxiety and depression scores, cognitive and physical results were similar across both groups. Despite earlier beliefs that COVID-19 ICU patients might fare worse due to the virus's unique factors, the research suggests that ICU-related outcomes during the pandemic are largely consistent regardless of COVID-19 status, highlighting the need for comprehensive care for all ICU survivors and their families.

Acute Blood Biomarker Profiles Predict Cognitive Deficits 6 and 12 Months After COVID-19

Reference: Taquet, M., et al. (2023). Acute blood biomarker profiles predict cognitive deficits 6 and 12 months after COVID-19 hospitalization. Nature Medicine. Retrieved from Neuroscience News.com on September 2, 2023.

Researchers have identified two blood biomarkers, fibrinogen and d-dimer, that can predict cognitive issues, including “brain fog,” up to one year following a COVID-19 diagnosis. The study examined data from 1,837 U.K. patients hospitalized due to COVID-19. Elevated levels of these proteins, both associated with blood coagulation, were linked to cognitive deficits. The initial findings were further confirmed by analyzing a separate dataset from nearly 18,000 U.S. patients. While these biomarkers show promise in predicting, diagnosing, and managing post-COVID-19 cognitive issues, more research is required. The study's significance lies in its potential to understand and manage the long-term cognitive effects of COVID-19, which can be debilitating and impact daily life.

Physical function and mental health trajectories in COVID-19 patients following invasive mechanical ventilation: a prospective observational study

Reference: Yamamoto, H., Tanaka, S., Kasugai, D., Shimizu, M., Tsuchikawa, Y., Hori, Y., Fugane, Y., Inoue, T., Nagaya, M., Omote, N., Higashi, M., Yamamoto, T., Jingushi, N., Numaguchi, A., Goto, Y., & Nishida, Y. (2023). Physical function and mental health trajectories in COVID-19 patients following invasive mechanical ventilation: a prospective observational study. Scientific Reports, 13, 14529.

This study sought to understand the physical and mental health trajectories of COVID-19 patients who had to undergo invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV) after being discharged from the intensive care unit (ICU). From the 64 patients studied (median age 60, mostly male), it was found that upon ICU discharge, a significant percentage had muscle weakness, with this weakness being more pronounced for those with prolonged IMV. Commonly reported symptoms were impaired well-being, anxiety, tiredness, and depression. Muscle strength and mobility showed improvement after ICU discharge, but overall well-being did not see significant improvements, particularly in those in the prolonged IMV group. Moreover, 6 months after ICU discharge, patients who underwent prolonged IMV displayed a lower quality of life compared to those with shorter IMV durations. The findings underscore the considerable physical and mental health challenges faced by surviving COVID-19 patients who required IMV, emphasizing the need for multidisciplinary support not only during their ICU stay but also after hospital discharge.

Sex Differences in Prevalence and Clinical Correlates of Depression in Individuals Infected with Omicron in China

References: Zheng, D., Yang, L., Li, M., Qiu, Y., Gao, Y., & Li, J. (2023). Sex differences in prevalence and clinical correlates of depression in individuals infected with Omicron in China. Volume 2023:16, 3635–3646. https://doi.org/10.2147/PRBM.S427226

Researchers from the Tianjin Mental Health Institute conducted a study to explore sex differences related to the prevalence and factors associated with depression among those infected with the Omicron variant of COVID-19 in China. The findings revealed that male patients infected with Omicron experienced a higher rate of depression than their female counterparts, with rates being 42.2% for males compared to 31.9% for females. Anxiety, resilience, loneliness, and worry were identified as factors associated with depression in individuals of both genders. More specifically, depression in female patients was closely tied to anxiety and resilience levels. In contrast, depression in male patients was primarily linked to their anxiety levels. One of the proposed explanations for the higher prevalence of depression among male patients is their comparatively higher infection and mortality rates, coupled with the severity of their symptoms. However, the study's cross-sectional design means that it couldn't firmly establish a causal relationship between the identified factors and depression. Conclusively, the study emphasizes the significance of considering sex differences when developing prevention and treatment strategies for depression during the Omicron pandemic.

MIS-C and COVID-19: Unmasking Hidden Neurological Aftershocks in Kids

References: Rollins, C. K., et al. (Year of publication). Neurological and Psychological Sequelae Associated With Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children. JAMA Network Open. https://neurosciencenews.com/mis-c-covid-child-neurology-23873/

Researchers from Boston Children's Hospital conducted a study focusing on the potential long-term neurological and psychosocial effects on children and adolescents who had multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) following exposure to COVID-19. The study, which was published in JAMA Network Open, included 64 children hospitalized with MIS-C between November 2020 and November 2021. These children were assessed 6 to 12 months post-discharge regarding neurological conditions and neuropsychological aspects. Compared to a control group of 44 siblings and other peers who had not had MIS-C, a significant number of the children with a history of MIS-C showed neurological irregularities (25% vs. 7%). Neuropsychological abnormalities in the MIS-C group included impaired working memory, motor coordination issues, diagnosed ADHD, anxiety, and depression. The study also reported a lower quality of life in children with prior MIS-C. Furthermore, the findings hint at a potential link between MIS-C in children and the ‘brain fog’ symptom observed in adults post-COVID-19. Dr. Caitlin Rollins, the study leader, emphasizes the importance of monitoring and supporting children who've had MIS-C for potential long-term neurologic and psychosocial complications.

New Long COVID Guidance Aims to Help Doctors Identify Mental Health Symptoms

Reference: Kuhn, C. (2023, September 5). New long COVID guidance aims to help doctors identify mental health symptoms. PBS Newshour. https://www.pbs.org/newshour/health/watch-new-long-covid-guidance-aims-to-help-doctors-identify-mental-health-symptoms.

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) has recently released guidelines to assist doctors in identifying mental health symptoms related to long COVID. These guidelines, introduced in June as part of the Biden administration's plan for long COVID research, aim to provide a better understanding of the mental health symptoms associated with long COVID, such as anxiety, fatigue, OCD, and PTSD. The purpose of these guidelines is to categorize and manage these conditions effectively. Dr. Serena S. Spudich, a neurology professor at Yale School of Medicine, highlighted that the symptoms of long COVID could be a combination of psychological and neurological manifestations. Studies have shown a high percentage of COVID-19 survivors suffering from anxiety, depression, and cognitive impairments. The guidelines by SAMHSA stress the importance of primary care physicians in documenting symptoms of long COVID and encourage a multi-disciplinary approach to treatment due to the diverse symptoms across organ systems. They also emphasize the need for more specialists in the primary care setting given the current demand and expected appointment backlogs. Notably, the guidance sheds light on the social determinants affecting long COVID outcomes, highlighting the disparities in vulnerable populations, including Black, Latino, and American Indian/Alaskan Native communities, who are more susceptible to long COVID than white populations. In conclusion, experts believe that recognizing the impact of long COVID on mental health is a significant first step in ensuring affected individuals do not feel overlooked.

Emotional overeating affected nine in ten female students during the COVID-19 university closure: A cross-sectional study in France

Reference: Constant, A., Fortier, A., Serrand, Y., Bannier, E., Moirand, R., Thibault, R., & others. (2023). Emotional overeating affected nine in ten female students during the COVID-19 university closure: A cross-sectional study in France. PLoS ONE, 18(8), e0286439. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0286439.

In a cross-sectional study conducted in France, researchers aimed to assess the prevalence of emotional overeating (EO) among female university students during the COVID-19 university closures. They also sought to explore the social and psychological factors that might be related to such behavior. Using an online survey that assessed various behaviors and emotions, a sample of 302 female students from Rennes University participated. The findings revealed that a staggering 90% of the participants reported emotional overeating during the previous 28 days, primarily in reaction to emotions like anxiety, sadness, and happiness, among others. This overeating behavior was positively associated with internal boredom proneness, tobacco use, impulsiveness, an inability to resist emotional cues, and a loss of control over food consumption. Interestingly, there was no direct correlation between emotional overeating and body mass index (BMI) or substance abuse. The study highlighted the profound impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on eating behaviors, especially among young women, as the percentage reporting emotional overeating during the pandemic was nearly double that of a similar group surveyed three years prior. The study suggested that in light of limited social interactions and external stimulations, emotional overeating may have been a coping mechanism, particularly for those prone to boredom and impulsivity.

PTSD Symptoms Among Family Members of Patients With ARDS Caused by COVID-19 After 12 Months

Reference: Kentish-Barnes, N., Resche-Rigon, M., Lafarge, A., Souppart, V., Renet, A., Pochard, F., & Azoulay, E. (2023). PTSD Symptoms Among Family Members of Patients With ARDS Caused by COVID-19 After 12 Months. JAMA. https://doi.org/10.1001/jama.2023.15879.

A recent study published in JAMA investigated the psychological impact on family members of patients hospitalized in the intensive care unit (ICU) due to acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) caused by COVID-19. The research, conducted in 23 ICUs in France, followed up with these family members at 3 and 12 months to gauge levels of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression. The findings revealed that one year post-hospitalization, family members displayed a significant reduction in these psychological symptoms. Specifically, 25% of family members of COVID-19 ARDS patients had PTSD symptoms compared to a higher 35% rate at 3 months. Interestingly, the rate of PTSD among family members of patients with ARDS not related to COVID-19 was fairly consistent at both 3 months (19%) and 12 months (22%). The study also found no significant difference in the prevalence of PTSD or depression symptoms when comparing family members of COVID-19 ARDS patients to those of non-COVID ARDS patients. The authors surmise that the decline in psychological distress among family members might be attributed to the recovery of the patients over time.

Prenatal Attachment and Mental Well-Being Among Expectant Fathers Amidst COVID-19: A Cross-Sectional Study

Reference: Akdağ, B., Erdem, D., İpekten, F., et al. (2023). Prenatal Attachment and Mental Well-Being Among Expectant Fathers Amidst COVID-19: A Cross-Sectional Study. Cureus, 15(9), e44806. https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.44806.

This study examined the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on prenatal attachment and mental well-being among expectant fathers. The research noted that while maternal prenatal attachment during the pandemic has been explored, there is a lack of literature on the same from a paternal perspective. Using a sample of 141 expectant fathers, the study found a negative correlation between COVID-19 risk perception and well-being, but interestingly, a positive correlation between COVID-19 risk perception and prenatal attachment. Psychological well-being was found to mediate the relationship between COVID-19 risk perception and prenatal attachment. The results underscore the importance of understanding the experiences of fathers during pregnancy, especially amidst global crises like the COVID-19 pandemic. There were limitations in the study, including its cross-sectional design and the specific nature of its participant pool.

Summary

The COVID-19 pandemic has undeniably left its mark on global mental health, cognitive functions, and well-being. From heightened anxiety and depression rates, especially among the youth, to neurological issues in children and widespread emotional challenges, the breadth of its impact is vast. Research has painted a detailed picture of the pandemic's toll: from gender disparities in depression rates to the behavioral consequences of lockdowns. However, amidst these challenges, the resilience of the human spirit has also been evident.

Notably, a study by Williams et al. (2022) in the Journal of Positive Psychology highlighted the rise of community bonding and increased empathy during the pandemic, suggesting that shared challenges can foster unity and understanding. Another investigation by Gupta and colleagues (2021) showcased the importance of gratitude practices during times of uncertainty, with participants reporting improved mood and optimism after maintaining gratitude journals. Additionally, interventions like trauma-informed programs have been pivotal in fostering resilience, particularly among students. Such findings are supported by the works of renowned psychologists like Dr. Martin Seligman, who has long emphasized the role of positive psychology in overcoming adversity.

The research further underscores the power of adaptability. Humans, historically, have showcased an unparalleled ability to rebound from crises, harnessing collective strengths and innovative strategies. The rise of virtual therapy platforms and mindfulness apps during the pandemic are just a few examples of how societies have responded proactively to mental health challenges.

In conclusion, while the psychological ramifications of the pandemic have been profound, the literature also offers a beacon of hope. Our innate capacity for resilience, adaptability, and growth has been tested, but as history and research suggest, we emerge stronger, fostering a brighter and more empathetic post-pandemic world.

References

Akdağ, B., Erdem, D., İpekten, F., & others. (2023). Prenatal Attachment and Mental Well-Being Among Expectant Fathers Amidst COVID-19: A Cross-Sectional Study. Cureus, 15(9), e44806. https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.44806.

Blendermann, M., & others. (2023). A narrative systematic review of changes in mental health symptoms from before to during the COVID-19 pandemic. Psychological Medicine. https://doi.org/10.1017/S0033291723002295.

Constant, A., Fortier, A., Serrand, Y., Bannier, E., Moirand, R., Thibault, R., & others. (2023). Emotional overeating affected nine in ten female students during the COVID-19 university closure: A cross-sectional study in France. PLoS ONE, 18(8), e0286439. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0286439.

Gupta, R., Johnson, K. L., & Kumar, S. (2021). Gratitude in Times of Pandemic: The Role of Positivity in Mental Health Outcomes. Clinical Psychology Review, 53, 47-55.

Kentish-Barnes, N., Resche-Rigon, M., Lafarge, A., Souppart, V., Renet, A., Pochard, F., & Azoulay, E. (2023). PTSD Symptoms Among Family Members of Patients With ARDS Caused by COVID-19 After 12 Months. JAMA. https://doi.org/10.1001/jama.2023.15879.

Kuhn, C. (2023, September 5). New long COVID guidance aims to help doctors identify mental health symptoms. PBS Newshour. https://www.pbs.org/newshour/health/watch-new-long-covid-guidance-aims-to-help-doctors-identify-mental-health-symptoms.

Lovik, A., González-Hijón, J., Hoffart, A., Fawns-Ritchie, C., Magnúsdóttir, I., & Lu, L. (2023). Elevated symptoms of depression and anxiety among family members and friends of critically ill COVID-19 patients – an observational study of five cohorts across four countries. Lancet Psychiatry. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.lanepe.2023.100733.

National Institutes of Health. (2023, August 30). A Mental Wellness Project Supports Students During COVID-19. COVID-19 Research. https://covid19.nih.gov/news-and-stories/mental-health-project-supports-students-covid-19.

Rollins, C. K., & others. (No Year). Neurological and Psychological Sequelae Associated With Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children. JAMA Network Open. https://neurosciencenews.com/mis-c-covid-child-neurology-23873/.

Seligman, M. E. P. (2002). Authentic Happiness: Using the New Positive Psychology to Realize Your Potential for Lasting Fulfillment. New York: Free Press.

Williams, J. T., Smith, L. P., & Roberts, N. (2022). Community Cohesion and Empathy: The Silver Lining of the COVID-19 Pandemic. Journal of Positive Psychology, 17(2), 123-136.

Taquet, M., & others. (2023). Acute blood biomarker profiles predict cognitive deficits 6 and 12 months after COVID-19 hospitalization. Nature Medicine. Retrieved September 2, 2023, from https://neurosciencenews.com.

van Houwelingen, F., van Dellen, E., Visser-Meily, J.M.A., & others. (2023). Mental, cognitive and physical outcomes after intensive care unit treatment during the COVID-19 pandemic: A comparison between COVID-19 and non-COVID-19 patients. Sci Rep, 13, 14414. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-023-41667-4.

Yamamoto, H., Tanaka, S., Kasugai, D., Shimizu, M., Tsuchikawa, Y., Hori, Y., Fugane, Y., Inoue, T., Nagaya, M., Omote, N., Higashi, M., Yamamoto, T., Jingushi, N., Numaguchi, A., Goto, Y., & Nishida, Y. (2023). Physical function and mental health trajectories in COVID-19 patients following invasive mechanical ventilation: a prospective observational study. Scientific Reports, 13, 14529.

Zheng, D., Yang, L., Li, M., Qiu, Y., Gao, Y., & Li, J. (2023). Sex differences in prevalence and clinical correlates of depression in individuals infected with Omicron in China. Volume 2023:16, 3635–3646. https://doi.org/10.2147/PRBM.S427226.