2023-04-21 10:07:52
During the Covid epidemic, elderly patients suffering from mental disorders were quickly considered to be particularly at risk of isolation and of developing anxiety and depression. In this context, at CH Le Vinatier, Steracovid is a multicenter cohort study which followed 117 patients by telephone in two geriatric psychiatric units, to determine the factors influencing the level of general anxiety (GA) during the pandemic period.
Research has identified coping strategies (how individuals respond to stressful situations), personality, and living conditions as important factors. More specifically, the researchers observe that patients adopting less positive coping strategies, that is to say in particular avoidance strategies, have:
– a lower level of extroversion,
– a higher level of neuroticism (personality trait characterized by a tendency to experience long-lasting negative emotional states),
– a higher feeling of loneliness,
– and a lack of physical contact.
They are therefore more exposed to a higher GA.
These results highlight the importance of taking into account the specificities of these patients to help them cope better with the pandemic crisis. More functional attitudes (reducing avoidance behaviours, increasing positive thinking, limiting the time spent watching the news, etc.) would constitute interesting perspectives for prevention. Finally, it is essential to maintain follow-ups during and following the pandemic.
• Find out more: www.ch-le-vinatier.frNews section.
• Anxiety symptoms during COVID-19 in older adults with psychiatric disorders, Front. Psychiatry, 16 January 2023 Sec. Aging Psychiatry, Volume 13 – 2022.
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