Background Since the end of 2019, COVID-19 and its consequences are present everywhere. Dutch professionals are concerned about the mental consequences, and in particular that during and after hospitalization little attention is paid to psychological problems.
Aim To monitor the short-term course and severity of (neuro)psychiatric symptoms after hospitalization for COVID-19. To make a recommendation regarding whether or not to follow-up these patients psychiatrically to optimize care.
Method In an observational cohort-study screening questions and additional questionnaires were used during two follow-up contacts to monitor cognition (MoCA), affective symptoms (HADS and IES) and overall functioning.
Results More than half of the 29 included patients showed (neuro)psychiatric problems at both follow-up moments. Two weeks after discharge, we mainly saw symptoms related to anxiety and depression. Except for complaints related to the traumatic experience of the COVID-19, these seemed to have a favorable natural course. A negative time effect was seen for complaints consistent with post-traumatic stress disorder. Two months after discharge limitations in cognition and overall functioning appeared to be the main complaints after COVID-19.
Conclusion (Neuro)psychiatric symptoms after a COVID-19 are common. The natural course for affective complaints is more favorable than for cognitive functions. Specialist follow-up of patients with post-COVID psychological problems is recommended.