A longitudinal evaluation of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on patients with pre-existing anxiety disorders

To examine if the COVID-19 pandemic is associated with a differential effect over time in relation to its psychological and social impact on patients with established anxiety disorders. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 24 individuals attending the Galway-Roscommon Mental Health Service...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Irish Journal of Psychological Medicine 2021-12, Vol.38 (4), p.258-265
Main Authors: Hennigan, K., McGovern, M., Plunkett, R., Costello, S., McDonald, C., Hallahan, B.
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Age
Anxiety - epidemiology
Anxiety Disorders
Coronaviruses
COVID-19
Employment
Health services
Humans
Informed consent
Medical research
Mental disorders
Mental health
Obsessive compulsive disorder
Original Research
Pandemics
Quality of Life
Quantitative psychology
SARS-CoV-2
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2
Statistical analysis
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Summary:To examine if the COVID-19 pandemic is associated with a differential effect over time in relation to its psychological and social impact on patients with established anxiety disorders. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 24 individuals attending the Galway-Roscommon Mental Health Services with an International Classification of Diseases (ICD)-10 diagnosis of an anxiety disorder at two time points (six months apart) to determine the impact of the COVID-19 restrictions on anxiety and depressive symptoms, social and occupational functioning and quality of life. No statistical difference in symptomatology was noted between the two time points in relation to anxiety symptoms as measured by utilising psychometric rating scales (BAI and HARS) or utilising a Likert scale. The greatest impact of COVID-19 at both time points is related to social functioning and quality of life. Significant variability was noted for individual participants. Qualitative analysis noted social isolation, concern for the participants' future and increased difficulty managing anxiety with ongoing restrictions. No significant overall change in symptomatology or functioning over time was noted for individuals with pre-existing anxiety disorders. Variability was, however, demonstrated between individuals, with some individuals describing ongoing anxiety, social isolation and concern for their future. Identifying those with ongoing symptoms or distress and providing multidisciplinary support to this cohort is suggested.
ISSN:0790-9667
2051-6967
DOI:10.1017/ipm.2021.32