Rehabilitation of Neuropsychiatric Symptoms in Patients with Long-COVID: Position Statement.

ABSTRACT

Long-COVID, a term used to describe ongoing symptoms following SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) infection, parallels the course of other post-viral syndromes. Neuropsychiatric symptoms of Long-COVID can be persistent and interfere with quality of life and functioning. Within the biopsychosocial framework of chronic illness, rehabilitation professionals can address the neuropsychiatric sequelae of Long-COVID. However, current practice models are not designed to address concurrent psychiatric and cognitive symptoms in adults living with Long-COVID. Thus, we present a biopsychosocial framework for Long-COVID and provide treatment strategies based on evidence from current literature of post-viral chronic illness. These recommendations will guide rehabilitation professionals in 1) identifying common neuropsychiatric symptoms in Long-COVID that can be targeted for intervention and 2) addressing these symptoms via integrative interventions taking into account the biopsychosocial presentation of Long-COVID symptoms.