The Covid-19 pandemic has changed our lives a lot, hasn't it? For some, even after recovering from Covid, some of the difficulties caused by it still persist. Feeling dizzy, feeling extremely tired, and feeling stressed can all be accompanied by feelings of depression. Today, we're talking about the connection between this condition called Long COVID and depression. Because being aware of this can be very important for you and your loved ones.
What is the connection between Long COVID and Depression?
Simply put, Long COVID refers to symptoms that persist for weeks, even months, after a person has recovered from COVID-19. This is not the same for everyone. Some people are severely affected, while others are not so severely affected.
The most common symptoms in this condition are:
- Brain fog
- Fatigue
- Difficulty breathing (dyspnea)
- Joint and muscle pain
- Problems like insomnia
- Heart palpitations
- Frequent mood changes
Imagine, you used to be a very active person. But now, due to Long COVID, you can't do the same work as before. It's hard to do your work at the office because your mind is not clear. You don't even feel like helping with your children's chores because your body feels incredibly tired. Things like this can disrupt your daily life, work, and family activities.
One study found that about half of people with Long COVID have had to reduce their work hours. This leads to financial problems and social isolation. When all of this comes together, it's not uncommon for depression to develop.
Depression is one way your mind responds when you can't do the things you used to do because of a new health condition.
Another study found that about a third of people who had COVID developed some form of neurological or psychiatric condition, including depression, within six months. This means that this condition is much more common than previously thought. The longer COVID symptoms last, the more likely it is that the accompanying depression will also last longer.
Who is most at risk for this condition?
Anyone can develop COVID-19 and related depression. However, some groups are at higher risk. While research is still ongoing into the causes, the table below lists some of the risk factors that have been identified.
| Risk Factor | A short description |
|---|---|
| If the Covid disease becomes severe | Those who have experienced severe conditions, such as requiring hospitalization, are at higher risk. |
| Being a woman | Research has shown that women are more likely to develop Long COVID compared to men. |
| Having other chronic diseases | People with other medical conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes mellitus, or asthma are at higher risk. |
| Having a previous mental illness | People who already have depression or other mental health issues are more likely to develop depression with Long COVID. |
| High inflammatory markers | High levels of inflammation in the body increase the risk of Long COVID. |
| Not having received the Covid-19 vaccine | Those who are not vaccinated are at high risk of severe COVID and developing Long COVID. |
| Aging or obesity | This risk may affect older people and obese people more. |
But in addition to these medical reasons, doctors say that indirect reasons such as economic problems caused by the pandemic, health fears, and social isolation have also had a major impact on post-Covid depression.
Does pre-existing depression affect Long COVID?
This is a problem that many people have. If you have a pre-existing condition of depression, you may be wondering how Long COVID and your mental health might interact. Research has found that if you had depression before you got COVID, you are at a higher risk of developing both physical and mental symptoms of Long COVID.
Also, pre-existing depression is a factor that makes COVID more severe and increases the risk of hospitalization. Now, one of the main risk factors for developing Long COVID is hospitalization.
Simply put, if you have pre-existing depression, you are more likely to be hospitalized if you develop COVID. Also, hospitalization is a major risk factor for developing Long COVID. So these things are linked.
How can I get help for depression that comes with Long COVID?
There is no specific treatment for the Long COVID condition itself. But the depression associated with it can be treated. The most important thing is to talk to your doctor about this. He or she will understand your condition, find out what the causes are, and help you.
There are several things your doctor can suggest to improve your mental health.
Treating other symptoms of Long COVID
Your depression may be due to other physical symptoms of Long COVID. So it is important to treat the other symptoms as well as the depression. Depending on your needs, your doctor may prescribe steroids or anti-inflammatory medication for the physical symptoms. They may also prescribe medication for the depression.
Psychological Treatment
These treatments are very helpful in controlling depression.
- Trauma therapy: Helps recover from traumatic experiences.
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): This therapy helps you change your thoughts and behaviors and develop healthier habits.
- Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): This helps you cope with the emotions caused by Long COVID and accept the situation.
Support from the community
Group therapy and talking to people who have been through the same things as you can help remind yourself that you are not alone . Depression is very common among people with COVID-19. Sharing your experiences with others can be a great way to help yourself. Support groups can also help you learn new ways to cope.
More research is needed on the psychological effects of long COVID, but the more this is discussed in society, the more likely it is to find solutions.
Take-Home Message
- Long COVID refers to health problems that persist after recovery from COVID-19. Depression is also very common.
- In addition to physical symptoms such as fatigue and brain fog, stress from work and family life can also contribute to depression.
- If you have pre-existing depression, you are at higher risk of developing Long COVID. And Long COVID can also cause depression.
- If you have these symptoms, please don't suffer alone and talk to your doctor. He or she will advise you on the most appropriate treatment options for you.
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