Psychiatrist Daphne Everaerd, together with Medical Advisor Sara Biere-Rafi, has article written and published on neuropsychiatric aspects of Long COVID. The literature on (neuro)psychiatric aspects of long COVID is still in its infancy and is developing rapidly. This literature review provides an update on the current state of affairs regarding the clinical symptoms of persistent complaints after COVID-19 that are relevant to the practice of the psychiatrist. An overview is also provided of the current available knowledge on risk factors, prevention options and treatment strategies of (neuro)psychiatric symptoms in long COVID.
Persistent complaints after COVID-19 are a major problem worldwide, and it is becoming increasingly clear that neuropsychiatric complaints are also part of this. After having COVID-19, anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress symptoms are common complaints. Cognitive symptoms are also common and show an unfavorable natural course. There is still little insight into risk factors that can cause these complaints.
Persistent neuropsychiatric complaints
Women and patients after ICU admission, with delirium or somatic comorbidity (the presence of a condition in addition to a primary, central disease or condition) have a higher risk of persistent neuropsychiatric complaints after COVID-19. Vaccination may have a protective effect against the development of persistent cognitive complaints after COVID-19. There is little evidence for effective treatments for post-COVID-related neuropsychiatric complaints.
Need more research
More research is needed into risk factors, diagnostics and especially effective treatments for persistent neuropsychiatric complaints after COVID-19. Until then, guidelines on known conditions with similar complaints may play a role in both the diagnosis and treatment of persistent neuropsychiatric complaints after COVID-19.
An accredited continuing education test for psychiatrists based on this article will soon be available, which will help to spread and anchor knowledge about post-COVID within this professional group.
