Findings and implications for research and practice from the perspective of clinical psychology and psychotherapy

The COVID-19 pandemic as a multidimensional and potentially toxic stress factor is also causing mental problems in the general population in Germany and is expected to lead to an increase in the incidence and prevalence rates of mental disorders. In this position paper, a scientifically differentiated consideration of the psychological effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on different age groups as well as psychological vulnerabilities and disorders is therefore made, whereby opportunities for mental health and psychotherapeutic care are also discussed. Based on the findings, the following health policy goals and measures are derived: Implementation of universal and indicated modular prevention services as well as adaptations of evidence-based psychotherapies in terms of need, content and modality. Due to its proven expertise in the field of mental health, clinical psychology and psychotherapy provides central knowledge for the successful coping of the COVID-19 pandemic and can contribute to tackling the challenges for mental health through interdisciplinary and interprofessional collaboration.