Impact of COVID-19 on obsessive-compulsive disorder: A case series

A V Sowmya1, Pratishtha Singh1, Madhura Samudra1

  • 1Department of Psychiatry, Dr D. Y. Patil Medical College, Dr D Y Patil Vidyapeeth, Pune, Maharashtra, India.

Insights

The COVID-19 pandemic worsened existing obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) symptoms in many patients and triggered new cases. This highlights OCD

Area of Science:

  • Psychiatry
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Mental Health

Background:

  • The COVID-19 pandemic, declared a public health emergency, has led to widespread mental health challenges.
  • Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is particularly susceptible to the stressors associated with pandemics.

Observation:

  • This case series investigated the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on individuals with OCD.
  • Patients experienced a range of effects, including symptom exacerbation and new-onset OCD.

Findings:

  • A significant number of patients with pre-existing OCD reported worsened symptoms during the pandemic.
  • New cases of OCD emerged, linked to various pandemic-related stressors.

Implications:

  • The findings underscore the vulnerability of OCD patients to global health crises.
  • Understanding these effects is crucial for adapting mental health support during pandemics.

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