Analysis of the impact of COVID-19 on major depressive disorder in adults: a systematic review

Authors

  • Arthur Ramos Santos
  • Júlia Vieira Salles de Oliveira
  • Hellen Cristina Pereira de Medeiros
  • Ronaldo Cascelli Schelb Scalla Pereira

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.34119/bjhrv7n4-244

Keywords:

COVID-19, pandemic, mental health, depressive disorder

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a multifaceted impact on people's daily lives and has adversely affected the population's mental health in several aspects. Therefore, the objective of this study is to analyze the impact of COVID-19 on the prevalence of major depressive disorder in adults, aiming to summarize the current literature to provide a broader understanding of the topic in pre- and post-pandemic scenarios. For this purpose, a literature review was conducted between October 2023 and February 2024, based on articles published in health databases. The PRISMA method and the PECO strategy were employed alongside the GRADE methodology to analyze the evidence. The study found that while the prevalence of depressive disorders varied geographically, there was a significant global increase due to the pandemic. After a worldwide peak in diagnoses, incidence rates tend to stabilize; however, it is important to note that some sequelae may persist in more vulnerable individuals or those who have contracted COVID-19. In summary, the adverse effects on mental health following the pandemic were evident, with health system responses influencing how countries addressed this increase, underscoring the importance of prioritizing mental health as a public health issue.

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Published

08/12/2024

How to Cite

SANTOS, A. R.; OLIVEIRA, J. V. S. de; MEDEIROS, H. C. P. de; PEREIRA, R. C. S. S. Analysis of the impact of COVID-19 on major depressive disorder in adults: a systematic review. Brazilian Journal of Health Review, [S. l.], v. 7, n. 4, p. e71835 , 2024. DOI: 10.34119/bjhrv7n4-244. Disponível em: https://ojs.brazilianjournals.com.br/ojs/index.php/BJHR/article/view/71835. Acesso em: 18 oct. 2026.

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Section

Original Papers