How "Long COVID-19" is taking a toll on patients' mental health

Posted February 14, 2022 by Patrick Palmieri, PhD

The stress of the COVID-19 pandemic has taken a toll on everyone, but especially on those who have battled the virus and now have lingering symptoms.

Known as “long COVID-19” or “post-COVID syndrome,” some patients are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms for weeks or even months after recovering from the acute phase of infection — even when the virus is no longer detected in their bodies. Even patients who had mild cases and weren’t hospitalized are still experiencing long COVID.

The stress of these symptoms is not only taking a toll on patients’ physical health, but also on their mental health. Recognizing the symptoms of long COVID-19 is the first step to getting the help you need.

Long COVID symptoms

Most people who contract the illness recover within a few weeks, but persistent physical symptoms for post-COVID patients may include:

• Shortness of breath
• Cough
• Chronic fatigue
• Muscle aches and joint pain
• Chest pain
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Numbness and tingling

Patients are also developing psychological problems, including brain fog, where they feel like their head is clouded, making it difficult to concentrate, do math calculations or make decisions. Other mental health symptoms long COVID-19 patients are experiencing include:

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Insomnia
• Memory or concentration problems
• Extreme mood changes
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

The effects of these wide-ranging symptoms can impact a patient’s relationships, work productivity and daily functioning. The difficulty of getting through the day can further increase their stress and anxiety, while decreasing their energy. What’s more, because COVID-19 is a newer virus, patients may be frustrated with the uncertainty as to what exactly the future of this pandemic will look like. They may be scared about what the future holds and unsure if they’ll ever return to their previous way of life.

COVID-19 can exacerbate pre-existing mental health problems or contribute to the development of new mental problems. No matter the cause, there are steps you can take to ease your symptoms and improve your health and mood.

Ways to ease mental health concerns for COVID-19 long haulers

Unfortunately, there is no one treatment or quick solution. But, early intervention is key to making a difference and finding relief.

First and foremost, seek treatment for symptoms that are interfering with your work and personal life. Physical and mental health are closely linked. By taking care of your mental health, you may be able to reduce the debilitating effects of your physical symptoms, as well.

While there is still much to learn about long COVID-19, there are treatments that have been shown to relieve patients’ mental health concerns. Cognitive behavioral therapy can help patients identify anxiety triggers to learn coping strategies, while acceptance therapy can reduce their worry over uncertainties.

In addition, there are ways to take care of your mind and ease your distress during this difficult time, including:

• Finding support. Contact a loved one or find an in-person or virtual support group to process your feelings or gain advice from others in a similar situation.
• Exercising. Exercising reduces stress and boosts your energy to fight fatigue.
• Eating a healthy diet. A balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables can positively affect your mood and energy levels.
• Practicing self-care.Be patient with yourself as you adjust to health changes. Focus on yourself to relax and recharge. Practice relaxation techniques, such as meditation, listen to soothing music or take a warm bath.
• Incorporating good sleep hygiene. Good sleeping habits, such as going to bed and waking at the same time every day, limiting screen time before bed, keeping your room quiet and dark, and limiting caffeine and alcohol, and can help fight insomnia.
• Reducing stress. No one can do it all. Try to cut down on your responsibilities, focus on positive thoughts and learn coping strategies to help you feel more calm and focused.
• Limiting screens and news coverage. Constant news about COVID-19 can heighten fear and anxiety about the disease.

If the aftereffects of COVID-19 have left you with depression, anxiety or other mental health concerns, don’t delay in getting the help you need. Therapy and other solutions are available for long COVID patients.

If you’re experiencing any long COVID symptoms, contact Summa Health’s Post-COVID Clinic for help. Their multidisciplinary team is dedicated to your recovery.