The Neuropsychiatric Impact Of Covid-19: A Systematic Review Of Mental Health And Adaptation Strategies

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic, emerging from new variants of the coronavirus in late 2019, rapidly became a global health crisis. By now, it has affected millions worldwide, presenting unprecedented challenges to public health and well-being. This pandemic, now present in over 200 countries, is not just a health crisis; it has profoundly disrupted lives, causing widespread psychological trauma. Recent studies have highlighted the escalating concerns related to mental health, such as heightened anxiety, depression, and stress, particularly among those in quarantine and healthcare professionals facing burnout due to prolonged exposure risk and continuous work.

This study aims to provide a contemporary systematic review, focusing on the latest research and trends in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region from the past few years. It examines the impact of the pandemic on mental well-being and explores various coping strategies adopted in the face of this crisis. The review emphasizes the importance of integrating resources and sharing information to foster behavioral changes that can mitigate the psychological impact of the pandemic. It underscores the need for evidence-based strategies in stress management and psychological resilience, particularly in the context of the GCC region, where cultural and social dynamics play a significant role in shaping responses to such global health emergencies.