Review article

Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Patients with Anxiety and Depressive Disorders

Petrana Brečić
Tihana Jendričko
Domagoj Vidović
Porin Makarić
Marko Ćurković
Ivan Ćelić

Abstract

The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on physical health and as a potentially life-threating condition, has significant repercussions on mental health by consequent psychological distress and the appearance of symptoms of mental disorders. Social isolation, as an epidemiologic measure, represents additional adverse impact on mental health. The pandemic’s influence on patients with anxiety and depressive disorders may manifest as an inadequate and maladaptive response resulting in excessive anxiety or worsening of the symptoms of the underlying disorder. Given the patient’s lack of psychological flexibility, it is more difficult for them to inherit the positive aspects of the adaptive effort needed to strengthen their resilience. Patients with anxiety and depressive disorders are a vulnerable population for whom the pandemic poses an additional psychological burden. It is therefore essential to ensure prompt, comprehensive, and continuous psychiatric care.

Keywords

pandemic; COVID-19; anxiety disorders; depression; therapeutic measures

Hrčak ID:

244341

URI

https://hrcak.srce.hr/244341

Publication date:

30.9.2020.

Article data in other languages: croatian

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