Long COVID in India and its impact on mental health: A comprehensive review

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), triggered by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV2), swiftly progressed into a global crisis, being confirmed a deadly disease by the World Health Organization (WHO) on Mar 11, 2020. Globally, over 762 million (m) COVID-19 cases and 7 m deaths have been reported, with India contributing significantly to these numbers, with 4.4 m cases and 0.5 m deaths as of 2023. The WHO introduced a unified definition for this condition in 2021, emphasizing symptoms persisting for as a minimum 2-month post-recovery. Long COVID’s prevalence and impact on mental health. The population has grappled with anxiety, stress, and depression, exacerbated by lockdowns, economic hardships, and social isolation. Long COVID has introduced further complexities, with symptoms including fatigue, distress, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Vulnerable groups, including healthcare workers, the elderly, children, and people having history of mental illness, are particularly affected most. Social isolation, stemming from pandemic control measures, has intensified feelings of loneliness and sadness, significantly predicting depression and anxiety. Economic instability and job losses have led to financial distress for many, compounding mental health challenges. This review underscores the crucial necessity to address the mental health consequences of COVID-19 alongside its physical health impact.