A Narrative Review on Prolonged Neuropsychiatric Consequences of COVID-19: A Serious Concern

Abstract

Abstract Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection is characterized by prolonged, postacute sequelae of COVID-19 (PASC). Marked by persistent or new-onset symptoms within 3 months following COVID-19 recovery, PASC significantly affects a diverse spectrum of survivors. Beyond cardiovascular implications, neuropsychiatric PASC demonstrates prolonged symptoms with diverse phenotypic profiles affecting memory, attention, and mood. The pathophysiologic basis points to SARS-CoV-2’s neurotropism, instigating inflammatory responses in the central nervous system. A comprehensive multimodal assessment, integrating psychological evaluations, fluid examinations, neurophysiology, and imaging, emerges as a critical diagnostic approach. Managing neuropsychiatric PASC necessitates personalized interventions to enhance resilience and coping mechanisms, emphasizing the role of physical fitness, creative engagement, and social support in mitigating its impact on identity and well-being. In addition, early initiation of cognitive rehabilitation and cognitive behavioral therapy is proposed to address symptom chronicity, emotional distress, and cognitive dysfunction, enhancing the quality of life. The urgency for targeted interventions, early neuropsychological support, and ongoing research to comprehensively address the multifaceted neuropsychiatric effects of COVID-19 is underscored in this review. Collaborative efforts involving health-care professionals, support networks, and affected individuals are imperative to navigate the evolving landscape of PASC and its persistent neuropsychiatric implications.