Psychological interventions on the front lines: A roadmap for the development of a behavioral treatment program to mitigate the mental health burden faced by COVID-19 survivors.

Abstract

Survivors of prolonged hospitalization due to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) are at risk for psychiatric symptoms that can interfere with rehabilitation and functional outcomes. We developed an hishek Jaywant,

Effects of a Multi-Professional Intervention on Mental Health of Middle-Aged Overweight Survivors of COVID-19: A Clinical Trial

“…With that, the present study presents similarities with the findings in the literature that observed improvements in the PHQ-9 and GAD-7 scores [34,47]. Considering the evidence that points to the need for care for these individuals who have post-COVID symptoms [9,[47][48][49], a unique look at the population after the COVID-19 pandemic becomes relevant so that effective techniques can be developed for the treatment of all the symptoms of this syndrome. Prolonged symptoms affect individuals' quality of life and well-being [50].…”

“…The scientific literature indicates that psychoeducation added to physical activities and a multi-professional approach can positively influence psychological aspects, such as a well-being decrease in anxiety and depressive symptoms, and contribute to the treatment and prevention of depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress [23,30]. Some similar practices have already shown positive results, reducing the impacts caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and other psychiatric conditions [9,10,31]. Another recent study from our research group showed similar results in approaches with concurrent exercise and dietary reeducation in overweight or obese middle-aged females [32].…”

“…Patients with overweight and especially, obese classified by body mass index (BMI) present increased risks of moderate and severe physical symptoms of COVID-19 [8] and also, could initiate mental health problems due to a long time for rehabilitation. Given this, psychoeducation added to other intervention tools may be effective in mitigating the effects on mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic [9] through psychoeducation, mindfulness exercises, promoting social interactions, stimulating wellness and brain health, validating emotional responses, and exploring patients' strengths and how to organize rehabilitation goals. The above-mentioned strategies are considered a tool to help reduce anxiety and depressive symptoms and promote mental health education [10].…”

“…Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate the effects of a multi-professional intervention model on the mental health of middle-aged, overweight survivors of COVID-19. Based on previous studies [7,9], it is presumed that psychoeducation can improve COVID-19 survivors' mental health, providing a better quality of life for these persons.…”

Trajectory and outcomes of psychiatric symptoms in first-wave COVID-19 survivors referred for telepsychotherapy

“…Clinical staff consisting of clinical psychologists and psychology postdoctoral fellows delivered a course of up to 14 virtual, evidence-based psychotherapy sessions to patients who met criteria for clinically significant anxiety or depression. This cognitive-behavioral treatment (CBT) program integrated psychoeducation, cognitive restructuring, mindfulness, acceptance and exposure-based techniques described in detail elsewhere [ 10 ].…”