Psychological Symptoms and Self-Medication Behavior among COVID-19 Recoverees

Objective: The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a surge in psychological symptoms, even after recovery. However, the measurement of psychiatric disorders requires diagnostic tools, whereas most studies, including this one, use symptom-based screening instruments. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of depressive symptoms and levels of emotional distress (stress and anxiety) among COVID-19 recoverees. It also examined the prevalence and predictors of self-medication behaviors in this population. Method : A cross-sectional study was conducted among 400 adults who had recovered from COVID-19 and attended academic pharmacies in Isfahan, Iran. Data were collected using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) for depressive symptoms, Depression Anxiety Stress Scales-21 (DASS-21) for emotional distress, and a researcher-designed questionnaire to assess self-medication practices. Logistic regression was performed to identify predictors of self-medication. Results: Moderate to severe depressive symptoms (PHQ-9 ≥ 10) were reported in 35.1% of participants. Based on DASS-21 scores, 38.8% had moderate to severe anxiety, and 33.5% had moderate to severe stress. Self-medication was reported by 32.8% of participants, primarily using sedatives, antidepressants, and herbal remedies. Depression was significantly associated with self-medication (OR = 2.18; 95% CI: 1.45-3.29; P < 0.001), while anxiety and stress were not. Conclusion: This study highlights a high prevalence of psychological symptomatology and self-medication among individuals recovering from COVID-19. Since only depressive symptoms were assessed using a validated psychiatric screening tool (PHQ-9), and no formal diagnostic criteria were applied, the results should not be interpreted as reflecting psychiatric disorder prevalence. The findings underscore the need for improved mental health support and regulation of medication access in post-COVID care settings.