(8) Change in Mental Health During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

This is an overview of changes in mental health during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic over five years ago, changes in mental health have been observed among infected individuals, non-infected individuals, those with mental disorders, women, young people, those at risk of suicide, elderly persons, and healthcare workers. Furthermore, as we enter the endemic phase, this review emphasizes the importance of managing post-COVID-19 symptoms and implementing long-term strategies. It discusses the characteristics of post-COVID-19 symptoms, risk and protective factors, pathophysiological hypotheses, mechanisms of chronicity, and finally, approaches to managing and caring for post-COVID-19 symptoms. Despite many unresolved issues, considering the potential for an increasing number of patients facing difficulties associated with post-infection symptoms and the possibility of prolonged challenges, sustained efforts to address these issues are indispensable. Further insights are anticipated to be accumulated, and effective interventions and support to be enhanced in the future.