Patients’ Clinical and Psychological Status in Different COVID-19 Waves in Italy: A Quanti-Qualitative Study

Abstract

Background: COVID-19 waves have been characterized by different clinical manifestations, a decrease of functional abilities, and the presence of psychological symptoms. The aims of this study were to investigate differences in physical and psychological symptoms during the three Italian waves of the coronavirus pandemic. Methods: Patients undergoing a functional, cardiological and pneumological check-up follow-up at ICS Maugeri Institutes, 2–3 months after recovery from COVID-19 were consecutively recruited to participate in the study, completing a quanti-qualitative questionnaire about anxiety, depression, PTSD symptoms, and personal resources. Results: 104 patients were recruited: 44 and 60 during the first and second/third pandemic waves, respectively. Physical comorbidities were more present in the second/third waves compared to the first one, while no significant differences were found in anxious and depressive symptoms, which were significantly higher than normal during the three waves; PTSD symptoms were reported by 56.3% of patients. Family, social support, and a positive mindset were described as resources to cope with the COVID-19 burden. Negative affects arose during outbreaks (panic) and the disease (fear), while positive affect (joy) characterized only the follow-up period. Conclusion: This study shows how psychophysical symptoms might change during the pandemic waves and highlights the importance of protective factors to balance the subjective distress.

Psychological factors promote the habituation effect on social workers’ posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms after repeated COVID-19 outbreaks.

“…This process enhanced their confidence in overcoming difficulties and mitigated stress reactions (Turner et al, 2022). Despite this, Vigorè et al (2023) investigated differences in physical and psychological symptoms of COVID-19 patients during the three Italian waves of the coronavirus pandemic. They found that although their physical health declined, there were no significant differences in anxious and depressive symptoms.…”