Abstract
In early 2020, the SARS-CoV-2 Virus made its appearance and has, since then, substantially impacted our lives. Those with mental health issues have been significantly impacted and are still adjusting. Multiple studies since then have been conducted to study its effects. This literature review aims to expand on the research conducted regarding the effects of COVID-19 on patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). After briefly reviewing research articles, coping and management techniques were discussed. Lastly, future research suggestions are provided. Five research studies are reviewed, and all of the results reveal that the pandemic has worsened OCD severity. For example, results of the Khosravani et al. study, which included 270 participants, showed that stress reactions related to compulsive checking and contamination exacerbated patient's OCD. A study by Tanir et al., which included 61 participants, discovered that contamination obsessions and cleaning or washing compulsions increased during the pandemic. Additionally, a study by David et al. with 30 participants found that contamination symptoms, particularly along with remitters, showed a worsening of OCD when compared to pre-COVID levels. Regarding coping mechanisms, patients with OCD used instrumental support, religion, denial, and self-blame when dealing with changes to their disorder. Researchers have advised therapists to monitor patients' screen time, since that's one of the ways that OCD levels of those with contamination, hygiene, and cleanliness obsessions tends to worsen. As for future directions, researchers should aim for longitudinal studies, which would fully measure the effects of the pandemic on OCD. The chapter concludes by elaborating on suggestions, since a vaccine is now available.
TopCovid-19 Effects
As of 2019, we’ve been dealing with a disease that is worsening OCD symptoms. COVID-19 is an infectious disease caused by a virus, SARS-CoV-2. As of April 28th 2021, there are more than 50 million active cases worldwide and 149 million, if one takes into consideration those who have recovered or died (COVID Live - Coronavirus Statistics - Worldometer, n.d.). Coronavirus is said to be found in both humans and animals. The first COVID case was discovered in December 2019. The virus is said to be transmitted through contact, cross-contamination and can be air-borne, as well. Most symptoms are similar to the flu because they include fever, cough, loss of taste and smell, headache, shortness of breath, etc. But COVID affects all aspects of life whether mental, physical, social, political, or economic.
Key Terms in this Chapter
Hierarchical Regression Analysis: A statistical procedure used to control variables and measure effects when other variables are added.
Longitudinal Study: A study that takes place over an extended period of time.
Circadian Rhythm: An internal process that regulates sleep-wake cycles. It repeats every 24 hours.
Brief COPE: A 28-item self-report questionnaire that measures effective and ineffective ways of coping with stressful life events.
Superego: Based on idealistic standards. It provides guidelines for making judgments such as moral standards or ideals acquired from parents and society.
Phlebotomy: The process of using a needle to draw blood from a vein.
Xenophobia: Dislike or prejudice against those from other countries.
Ego: Aids in keeping the Id in check. It’s based on the reality principle which seeks to satisfy the Id’s desires in realistic and appropriate societal ways.
Cross-Sectional Study: The study of data from a population taken at a specific point in time.