The coronavirus depression is real. Here's what you need to know: (2023)

anxiety and depressionincreased by 25%And that the first year that the Covid-19 pandemic swept the world. Researchers find growing evidence that coronavirus is wreaking havoc on our mental health: In a 2021 studyMore than half of US adultsSymptoms of major depressive disorder have been reported following coronavirus infection. The risk of developing these symptoms, as well as other mental disorders, remains highUp to a year after recovery.

It is not surprising that the epidemic had such a large impact. "This is a seismic event," said Dr. Ziad Al-Ali, a clinical epidemiologist at Washington University in St. Louis and director of research and development for the St. Louis Veterans Health System.

Health problems, grief over the loss of a loved one, social isolation and disruption to daily life contributed to the difficulty, especially at the beginning of the pandemic. But compared to those who managed to avoid transmission (and manage the difficult effects of the pandemic), those infected with Covid-19 appear to be more vulnerable to a variety of mental health problems.

"Coronavirus affects the brain," said Dr. Al Ali. "Some people suffer from depression, while others may suffer from stroke, anxiety, memory disorders and sensory disturbances." Still others have no neurological or psychiatric disorders at all, he said.

Why do some people feel depressed after getting a new crown?

Scientists are still investigating how the coronavirus changes the brain, but research is beginning to reveal some possible explanations. For example, some studies have shown that some people's immune systems are in overdrive. They can eventually lead to inflammation throughout the body and even the brain. There is also evidence that the endothelial cells of the brain's blood vessels are damaged during Covid-19 infection, which may allow harmful substances to inadvertently pass through and impair mental function. Microglia normally function as stewards of the brain, but in some patients they can get out of control, attacking neurons and destroying synapses, said Dr. Al Ali.

Covid-19 may even harm diversityBacteria and microbes in the gut. Since microbes have been detected in the gutproduce neurotransmittersLike mood-regulating serotonin and dopamine, this change could be at the root of some neuropsychiatric problems.

Who is most at risk?

One of the biggest risk factors for developing depression after Covid-19 or any other serious illness is a mental disorder diagnosed before the illness. People who have severe Covid-19 symptoms and require hospital care during their illness are also more likely to develop depression, according to Megan Hosey, a recovery psychologist in the intensive care unit. Patient at Johns Hopkins Hospital.

According to the WHO. Young people are estimated to be at greater risk of suicide and self-harm in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Women are more likely than men to report mental health impacts from COVID-19. People with pre-existing physical conditions such as asthma, cancer and heart disease are more likely to develop mental disorder symptoms after being infected with the new coronavirus.

In addition, people experiencing extensive sleep disturbances, social isolation, or other severe behavioral changes (such as the amount of alcohol they drink or the type of prescription drugs they take) may experience physical symptoms. Depression may be more common due to Covid-19. 19 disappear. "We know that additional stressors can predict later depressive symptoms," said Dr. Horsey. Some research suggests that people who suffer from these stressors may do sothey are more susceptible to long-term infectionsGenerally speaking.

When will the COVID-19 blues turn into clinical depression? What are the first signs?

When you're busy fighting off a viral infection, it's normal to feel tired and have a headache. "If you're not physically well, it can affect your mood," says Dr. Horsey. "I would never diagnose clinical depression in someone in the acute phase of COVID-19."

However, if you begin to feel tired and overwhelmed two to six weeks after contracting the virus and begin to interfere with your daily activities or negatively affect your relationships with others, it may be a sign of depression, said Dr. Horsey. .

Some people with depression may also experience persistent sadness, tearfulness, irritability, changes in appetite or weight, difficulty thinking or concentrating, or great feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or hopelessness. People with major depression may have frequent thoughts of death and suicidal thoughts, said Dr. Horsey.

What can you do to deal with depression after COVID-19?

If you are concerned that you or a loved one may develop symptoms of depression after contracting COVID-19, it is important to consult a doctor or mental health professional. "Not everyone needs to see a psychiatrist to be evaluated for depression," says Dr. Al Ali. People can also ask their doctor for help with what they're going through, he said. "The most important thing is to seek help. And early on."

Depression often doesn't go away on its own, said Dr. Horsey. It can be tempting to turn to online resources and self-diagnosis tools and order supplements that promise to reduce inflammation associated with COVID-19 or restore gut health. However, many of these interventions are unreliable or not supported by evidence.

It's a good idea to evaluate your diet, sleep, and drug and alcohol use. consumptionmore nutritious foodAndestablish good sleep habitsFor example, there may be a small positive effect on your mental health. research showsExcerciseAndMeditationIn some cases, it can also help heal the mind. However, if behavioral changes do not work, a professional may recommend therapy or medication as needed.

Access to telemedicine and mental health services have improved during the pandemic, said Dr. Horsey. Some states now allow licensed psychologists to care for patients in other states owned by the state.Procedural Compact for Psychologyor psychotherapy. That means it's easier to find an in-person or online mental health provider, even if your area lacks specialized care, says Dr. Horsey.

It is unclear how long it will take for symptoms of depression to disappear after the COVID-19 pandemic. "Recovering from depression is a very individual process," says Dr. Horsey. Many people recover after a short period of treatment. Some people relapse where symptoms get worse and may need to try other treatments, he said. Sometimes depression goes away without treatment, although people with mild symptoms are more likely to develop it.

"After infection with COVID-19, you should take a break and be patient," said Dr. Horsey. "Infections can be difficult to treat."