Post-COVID-19 symptoms and the development of mental disorders in pharmacy students: a cross-sectional study

The health issues of patients after the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) infection necessitate more attention than ever. Many patients, after being infected with COVID-19, have experienced persistent symptoms that require hospitalization for treatment. Besides physical problems, mental health is of concern. Our cross-sectional study aimed to evaluate the relationship between post-COVID-19 symptoms and the development of mental disorders. A questionnaire was sent to 343 pharmacy students at Can Tho University of Medicine and Pharmacy about COVID-19 infection and post-COVID-19 symptoms. Insomnia, anxiety, and depression were assessed through the Insomnia Severity Index, General Anxiety Disorder-7, and Patient Health Questionnaire scales, respectively. COVID-19 had affected 174 students, of whom 53.4% reported to have post-COVID-19 symptoms. Fatigue/weakness was the most common symptom and was significantly elevated in individuals with multiple infections compared to those affected just once. Mental health issues such as insomnia, anxiety, and depression increased by 50% in students with post-COVID-19 symptoms, especially those with fatigue, difficulty breathing, and persistent cough. In addition, depression was more prevalent in those with chest pain. In conclusion, our study suggested a relationship between post-COVID-19 symptoms and pharmacy students' mental health. Particular attention should be paid to this population; thereby, prompt support could be made to improve their mental health.