PSYCHONEUROLOGICAL THERAPY FOR POST-COVID SYNDROME: A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW OF METHODS AND CLINICAL EFFECTIVENESS

Post-COVID syndrome has emerged as a major global health issue characterized by long-lasting psychoneurological symptoms, including cognitive impairment, anxiety, depression, sleep disturbances, and fatigue. These symptoms can persist regardless of the severity of the initial SARS-CoV-2 infection and often result in long-term functional limitations. The purpose of this review was to summarize current evidence on psychoneurological therapeutic approaches used to manage post-COVID syndrome and evaluate their clinical effectiveness.

A structured literature review was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, MEDLINE, and Google Scholar. Eligible studies included randomized controlled trials, observational studies, and clinical reports published up to 2024 that examined pharmacological, psychotherapeutic, physical, complementary, or neuromodulation-based treatments for adults with persistent psychoneurological symptoms after COVID-19. The review followed standard ethical practices for narrative reviews; no new human or animal data were collected, and therefore ethical approval or CTRI registration was not required. Findings were synthesized narratively by therapy category.

The review identified consistent evidence supporting the efficacy of multiple therapeutic modalities. Pharmacological agents including SSRIs, SNRIs, anxiolytics, and nootropics reduced anxiety, depression, and cognitive dysfunction. Psychotherapeutic methods such as cognitive behavioral therapy, psychodynamic therapy, and mindfulness-based interventions improved emotional regulation and coping. Physical rehabilitation, aerobic exercise, and breathing practices enhanced endurance and reduced fatigue. Complementary approaches (e.g., acupuncture, massage) provided additional symptom relief. Neuromodulation techniques, including transcranial magnetic stimulation and electroconvulsive therapy, demonstrated benefits in treatment-resistant cases.

Psychoneurological therapy for post-COVID syndrome requires a multimodal approach that integrates pharmacological, psychological, physical, and neuromodulatory interventions. Current evidence suggests that individualized, combined strategies are most effective for improving cognitive, emotional, and functional outcomes. Further research is needed to optimize treatment protocols and evaluate long-term effectiveness.