infection affects fear levels

The Covid-19 epidemic has left its mark. During this period, our physical and mental health have been affected. This is also the case with our behavior, due to the fear of contracting the infection. “Fear has gained attention as an important psychological factor during the pandemic. However, its link to the experience of coronavirus infection among people and their families is unclear,” indicated researchers from the University of Tsukubac (Japan). This is why in a study they looked into the question.

Covid-19: the more serious the symptoms, the more the fear increases

To carry out the research, the team analyzed the responses of 15,542 people who participated in an online survey, conducted three times between 2020 and 2022, to determine the effects of experiencing a Covid infection. -19 in these patients, but also in their family members who live with them, on the feeling of fear. According to the results, published in the journal BMJ Openthe presence or absence of an infection experience, and the severity of symptoms made a difference in their perception of fear. Specifically, mild symptoms in respondents or their family members were correlated with decreased fear, while severe symptoms were associated with increased fear.

Adapted mental health interventions must be put in place

“Gender, age and history of respiratory illness or mental illness were also significant factors. For example, women reported higher levels of fear than men and people with a history of respiratory illness showed increased fear.” However, over time, the fear related to the coronavirus experience has diminished. According to the authors, these data highlight the need for tailored mental health interventions that take into account personal and family infectious experiences, as well as other sociodemographic factors. “They also reflect the evolving public response to the changing dynamics of the pandemic.”