Completed Projects

Exploring Neurocognitive and Emotional Outcomes of Long COVID-19 A Study in Pakistani Patients

Introduction: COVID-19, primarily a respiratory illness, also significantly impacts neurocognitive and emotional health, particularly in the long-term manifestation known as Long COVID. This study investigates the neurocognitive and emotional outcomes of long-term COVID-19 in Pakistani patients, addressing the persisting symptoms and their effects on mental health and cognitive function. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in Islamabad from March 2022 to March 2023, involving 100 adult participants who had recovered from COVID-19. Participants were assessed using the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), ADHD Self-Report Questionnaire, Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS), and Punishing Allah Reappraisal Scale. Data were analyzed using SPSS v26, employing chi-square tests, t-tests, and ANOVA. Results: The study revealed significant correlations between COVID-19 symptoms and psychological variables. COVID symptoms showed a negative correlation with MMSE scores (r = -0.04, p < 0.01) and positive correlations with ADHD (r = 0.13, p < 0.05), depression (r = 0.14, p < 0.05), and anxiety (r = 0.25, p < 0.05). Females reported higher levels of depression (mean = 1.21, SD = 0.83) and anxiety (mean = 1.33, SD = 0.86) compared to males. Discussion: The findings highlight the extensive impact of long-term COVID-19 on neurocognitive and emotional health, with significant gender differences in emotional outcomes. These results emphasize the need for integrated mental health services in post-COVID care plans and gender-sensitive interventions.