Late mental sequelae in post-COVID-19 individuals

Aim. The aim of the study was to investigate the long-term psychological effects in patients who had experienced COVID-19 and those who underwent quarantine. Differences in metacognitive beliefs and overall mental health were analyzed to assess their impact on the emergence of psychological distress.

Material and methods. The study involved 122 participants, including post-COVID-19 patients and individuals who had been quarantined. To assess mental health, the Metacognitive Questionnaire (MCQ) and the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12) were used, providing data on metacognitive beliefs and overall mental health.

Results. Post-COVID-19 patients more frequently reported positive beliefs about worrying (MCQ1), while quarantined individuals scored higher in cognitive self-awareness (MCQ5) and negative beliefs about lack of control over thoughts (MCQ4). Both groups exhibited similar levels of general psychological distress, suggesting that the pandemic had a widespread impact on mental health, regardless of direct contact with the disease.

Conclusions. Both post-COVID-19 patients and quarantined individuals require psychological support to counteract the negative mental effects of the pandemic. Therapeutic interventions, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy and mindfulness techniques, can help manage stress and rumination.