Neuropsychiatric Consequences of COVID-19 Pandemic: A Synthetic Review from a Global Perspective

Abstract

Some research suggests that distress, secondary to isolation and fear following COVID-19 infection, can negatively affect the long-term more than the COVID-19 infection itself. This narrative review aims to provide a global view on the neuropsychiatric consequences of COVID-19 that can be ascribed to several factors, ranging from the direct effect of infection, to the body’s responses against the infection, or to the psychological sequelae of social isolation, unemployment, and fear for one’s health and livelihood. Current findings show that the more severe the respiratory infection, the more likely are central nervous system (CNS) complications regarding the infection itself. The immune reactions to the infection may result in symptoms similar to chronic fatigue as well as neurocognitive deficits, which last long after the infection is gone. An increase in symptoms of depression, anxiety, and trauma-related stress may also follow upon economic fears and isolation from friends and family. The consequences of the pandemic are not limited to adults; children learning remotely and away from classmates and routine activities may develop adjustment disorders, acute stress disorder, and a variety of manifestations of grief. A summary of case reports suggests that COVID-19-related stress, economic recession, and political unrest increase the risk of suicidal behaviors and acts of violence. However, it is unknown whether manifestations of mental disorders result from social causes or whether CNS complications may be responsible.

Predictors of increased affective symptoms and suicidal ideation during the COVID-19 pandemic: results from a large-scale study of 14 271 Thai adults

“…The emergence of COVID-19 has become a global pandemic in March 2020 1. The negative impact of the pandemic on individuals is multifaceted, affecting aspects such as daily life, physical health, mental health, economics and society 2. Undoubtedly, the pandemic has heightened significant economic and social challenges on a global scale.…”

“…During the initial phase of widespread epidemics, it is often observed that a larger-than-expected number of individuals experience mental health issues. There is evidence suggesting that pandemics have a significant impact on mental disorders 2 4. Pandemics have the potential to trigger new psychiatric symptoms in individuals who have no history of such disorders, exacerbate existing mental health conditions and even lead to mental health challenges among the caregivers of those affected by SARS-CoV-2 infection 5.…”

“…From the initial shock of the outbreak to the ongoing challenges of containment, individuals, families and communities have been thrusted into an era of uncertainty and induced/worsened mental symptoms. This period has been marked by disruption of daily routines, concerns over personal and public health, economic turmoil and social isolation 2 7. As the pandemic unfolded, the mental and emotional toll of these stressors became increasingly evident.…”

“…1 The negative impact of the pandemic on individuals is multifaceted, affecting aspects such as daily life, physical health, mental health, economics and society. 2 Undoubtedly, the pandemic has heightened significant economic and social challenges on a global scale. The disruptions caused by the pandemic have magnified difficulties in various facets of life, resulting in a cascade of adverse consequences.…”

“…There is evidence suggesting that pandemics have a significant impact on mental disorders. 2 4 Pandemics have the potential to trigger new psychiatric symptoms in individuals who have no history of such disorders, exacerbate existing mental health conditions and even lead to mental health challenges among the caregivers of those affected by SARS-CoV-2 infection. 5 Importantly, this impact on mental health can be felt by individuals regardless of whether they have been directly exposed to the virus, with many people feeling sadness or anxiety related to the fear of falling ill or dying.…”