People With Mood Disorders Face Higher Risk of Long COVID: Here’s What You Need to Know
The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted every aspect of life—but for those with pre-existing mental health conditions, especially mood disorders like depression or bipolar disorder, the risks may be even greater. New research shows that people with mood disorders are significantly more likely to develop long COVID, also known as post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC).
This article breaks down the science, explains why this connection exists, and offers strategies to help protect and support mental health during and after COVID-19 infection.
What Is Long COVID?
Long COVID refers to the lingering symptoms that persist weeks or even months after the initial COVID-19 infection has cleared. These symptoms can vary widely and affect multiple systems in the body, including:
- Fatigue
- Brain fog
- Shortness of breath
- Muscle or joint pain
- Anxiety and depression
- Sleep disorders
Some people develop long COVID even after mild or asymptomatic infections, making it unpredictable and difficult to manage.
Key Study Findings: Mood Disorders Increase Long COVID Risk
According to a comprehensive study published in *JAMA Psychiatry*, individuals with mood disorders like major depression or bipolar disorder were up to 50% more likely to develop long COVID compared to those without psychiatric history. This held true even after controlling for variables like age, gender, vaccination status, and severity of initial infection.
Other studies from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs also confirmed that mental health conditions were significant predictors of prolonged post-COVID symptoms.
Why Does Mental Health Impact Long COVID?
There are several reasons why individuals with mood disorders are more vulnerable to long COVID:
- Weakened immune response: Chronic depression and anxiety can impair the immune system’s ability to fight infections and recover effectively.
- Inflammation link: Both COVID-19 and mood disorders are associated with systemic inflammation, which may worsen outcomes when combined.
- Sleep and lifestyle factors: Irregular sleep, poor diet, or lack of exercise—common among people with mood disorders—can delay recovery.
- Increased body awareness: Individuals with depression or anxiety may be more attuned to bodily changes, increasing symptom reporting.
The Vicious Cycle: Long COVID Can Also Worsen Mood Disorders
It’s not just that mood disorders raise the risk of long COVID—long COVID itself can exacerbate existing mental health problems. The persistence of symptoms like fatigue, brain fog, and loss of daily function can lead to:
- Worsening depression or hopelessness
- Increased anxiety over health and finances
- Social withdrawal and isolation
- Disrupted sleep cycles
This creates a feedback loop that makes recovery more difficult, both mentally and physically.
Symptoms of Long COVID That Overlap With Mood Disorders
Some long COVID symptoms mirror common mood disorder symptoms, which can make diagnosis more complex. Overlapping signs include:
- Low energy and fatigue
- Cognitive issues (brain fog)
- Sleep disturbances
- Lack of motivation
- Appetite changes
It's important to differentiate between long COVID effects and mental health relapse, ideally through a professional mental health evaluation.
Steps to Protect Mental Health If You’re at Risk
1. Get Vaccinated and Boosted
Vaccination not only reduces your risk of contracting COVID-19 but also lowers the likelihood of developing long COVID. For people with mood disorders, staying up to date with vaccines is especially crucial.
2. Prioritise Mental Health Treatment
If you already have a mood disorder, staying in consistent care can lower your overall risk. Treatment options include:
- Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)
- Antidepressant or mood-stabilising medications
- Mindfulness and meditation
- Peer support groups
Addressing mental health proactively helps improve immune resilience and lowers vulnerability to chronic post-viral symptoms.
3. Maintain a Healthy Routine
- Sleep: Aim for 7–9 hours per night
- Nutrition: Eat a balanced, anti-inflammatory diet
- Movement: Gentle daily exercise can support mood and immunity
- Hydration: Water intake supports detoxification and energy
Routine and self-care provide a sense of control and stability—especially important for people managing depression or anxiety.
4. Stay Connected
Long COVID can feel isolating. Keeping in touch with trusted friends or support groups—even virtually—can reduce loneliness and emotional strain. Talking about symptoms also validates your experience and reduces the burden.
Internal Resources for Further Reading
FAQs About Mood Disorders and Long COVID
Do people with anxiety or depression have a higher chance of getting long COVID?
Yes. Studies have shown that individuals with mood disorders are significantly more likely to develop prolonged post-COVID symptoms.
Can long COVID make depression or anxiety worse?
Absolutely. The persistent fatigue, brain fog, and social isolation linked to long COVID can intensify existing mental health conditions.
Are people with mental health conditions more likely to be hospitalised with COVID?
Some studies suggest higher hospitalisation rates, especially among those with untreated severe mental illnesses or comorbidities.
Can therapy help with long COVID recovery?
Yes. Mental health support, including CBT, can help manage emotional stress, cope with uncertainty, and improve quality of life during recovery.
Is long COVID permanent?
Not always. Many people recover within weeks or months, but some may have symptoms for a year or more. Early intervention and ongoing care improve outcomes.
Final Thoughts
People living with mood disorders are already navigating complex emotional landscapes. When COVID-19 is added to the mix, the risks multiply—but so do the opportunities for better support. Understanding the link between mental health and long COVID is the first step to improving care, preventing complications, and empowering individuals on their recovery journey.
If you or someone you know is struggling with post-COVID symptoms or mental health challenges, don’t wait. Reach out to a mental health professional and explore resources designed to support your unique needs.
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