[Neuropsychiatric Aspects of COVID-19 - A Narrative Overview]

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Psychiatry
• Public Health

Background:

• The Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus Type 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and its associated disease, Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), impact multiple organ systems.
• The pandemic presents unique stressors, including socio-economic and psychosocial factors, potentially leading to mental health challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide an overview of the psychiatric aspects of SARS-CoV-2 infection.
• To describe the psychological symptoms in COVID-19 patients and the mental health effects on the general population due to pandemic-related stressors.

Main Methods:

• Literature search of Medline, Embase, and LIVIVO databases up to March 2nd, 2021.
• Review of existing studies on psychiatric complications and psychological effects of the pandemic.

Main Results:

• Delirium is the most common psychiatric complication in COVID-19 patients. Hospitalized patients show increased anxiety, depression, and PTSD symptoms.
• Existing psychiatric conditions, particularly dementia and psychotic disorders, increase infection risk and disease severity.
• Post-COVID-19 recovery is associated with higher incidence of mental illnesses, including Chronic Post-SARS Syndrome (fatigue, anxiety, depression, PTSD), and negative impacts on dementia.
• Pandemic stressors and socio-political measures correlate with high symptom values for anxiety, depression, PTSD, stress, and suicidality, with risk factors including younger age, female gender, fewer resources, and pre-existing illnesses.

Conclusions:

• SARS-CoV-2 infection has significant psychiatric and neuropsychological consequences.
• The pandemic and associated measures pose a substantial threat to mental health, necessitating targeted interventions and support.