COVID‐19 impact on post‐traumatic stress symptoms in burning mouth syndrome: A multicentric study

Abstract

ObjectivesThis study investigates the psychological impact of COVID‐19 on burning mouth syndrome (BMS) patients. It focuses on comparing post‐traumatic stress symptoms (PTSS), post‐traumatic growth (PTG), and resilience between BMS patients and Controls.MethodsA total of 100 BMS patients and 100 Controls from five Italian centers participated in this observational cross‐sectional study. They completed several assessments, including the General Health Questionnaire, Depression Anxiety and Stress Scale, Insomnia Severity Index, National Stressful Events Survey Short Scale, Impact of Event Scale‐Revised, Post Traumatic Growth Inventory Short Form, and Connor‐Davidson Resilience Scale.ResultsBMS patients had significantly higher stress, anxiety, and depression (DASS‐21 score) and post‐traumatic stress symptoms (IES‐R‐6 score), particularly in terms of intrusive thoughts. They showed lower post‐traumatic growth (PTGI‐SF score) compared to Controls. The resilience scale (CDRS‐10) was a key predictor of PTG in both groups, explaining a significant variance in PTGI‐SF scores.ConclusionsBMS patients experienced heightened post‐traumatic stress, stress, anxiety, and depression during the COVID‐19 pandemic, with reduced post‐traumatic growth. This highlights the need to prioritize their psychological well‐being, focusing on stress management and fostering post‐traumatic growth in challenging times.