Prevalence and severity of anxiety, stress, and depression among adults with long COVID in Barcelona: a cross-sectional study

Background The COVID-19 pandemic’s long-term mental health implications are increasingly concerning, especially among patients with post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection, also known as long COVID (LC). Aim To explore the presence and distribution of anxiety, depression, and stress in individuals with LC with cognitive complaints in northern Barcelona, Spain. Design & setting This cross-sectional study involved 155 diagnosed individuals with LC from the 'Aliança ProHEpiC-19 Cognitiu (APC)' project. Method Demographic data and health behaviour variables were collected, and the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-21) was self-administered to assess mental health. Descriptive statistics, χ2 tests, and Poisson regression models were used for data analysis. Results 'Severe' stress and 'extremely severe' anxiety were prevalent in the sample. There were significant differences in anxiety and depression based on age and job role, with older individuals and non-healthcare workers showing higher relative risks ( P <0.05). Conclusion Our study highlights the significant mental health burden in patients with LC, underscoring the need for targeted interventions, especially among adults aged >45 years and non-healthcare workers. Further research is needed to better understand LC’s complex mental health impacts and develop effective clinical management strategies.