Long-Term Effects of COVID-19 on Mental Health: A Public Health Perspective

Abstract

The COVID-19 (C-19) pandemic has enduring effects on Mental Health (MH). The research intends to examine the longitudinal alterations in MH issues from the first peak of C-19 to its aftermath amongst the general population. Anxiousness, depression, and sleeplessness were evaluated substantially across the national group of 1500 adults throughout the initial peak of C-19 and its period utilizing the Client Health Survey-9, Generalized Stress Conditions-7, and Sleep deprivation Severity Indexes. The research employed generalized evaluating formulas and mixed linear methods to investigate parameters linked to prolonged psychological symptoms of C-19. Throughout the five months, psychological problems persisted at elevated levels (baseline 47.2%; monitoring 43.2%). Long-term sadness, anxiousness, and depression were linked to various private and occupational variables, such as isolation (adjusted odds ratio for any mental health symptoms), increased work burden post-resumption, job-related danger to C-19, and residing in areas severely impacted by the initial C-19 peak or resurgences. Adherence to self-protective measures, including the use of face masks, has been correlated with a reduced long-term risk of psychological disorders. The results indicate a significant and enduring mental state impact from the first C-19 peak. It is imperative to consistently assess the mental well-being of at-risk groups during the C-19 pandemic