Cognitive, Behavioral, and Emotional Disorders in Populations Affected by the COVID-19 Outbreak
1Department of Teacher Training, University of Craiova, Craiova, Romania.
Frontiers in Psychology
|October 12, 2020
Summary
The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly increased psychological distress, anxiety, and emotional suffering in patients and the general population. Prolonged isolation and pre-existing conditions heighten vulnerability to mental health disorders.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Psychology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- The COVID-19 pandemic has led to widespread self-isolation and quarantine measures.
- These measures, alongside the disease itself, have raised concerns about mental and emotional well-being.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and synthesize existing literature on the psychological consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic.
- To examine the impact of prolonged isolation and quarantine on mental health.
Main Methods:
- A quantitative literature review was conducted in May 2020 using the Web of Science database.
- Search terms included "psychological anxiety," "emotional distress," "social isolation stress," and "mental health disorders."
- 49 empirical sources published in 2020 were selected for analysis.
Main Results:
- The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in increased psychological distress and anxiety across affected populations.
- Pre-existing mental health conditions were aggravated, and new stress-related disorders emerged.
- Both infected patients and the general population experienced depressive symptoms and fear, with recovery potentially mitigating some apprehension.
Conclusions:
- The COVID-19 pandemic poses significant risks to mental and emotional health, particularly for vulnerable individuals.
- Prolonged isolation and potential reductions in care provision warrant further investigation for long-term mental health impacts.
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