AOHC Encore 2022-326: COVID-19 and Mental Health

Video Transcription

Video Summary

The video features a presentation by Mark Rappaport, Chairman of the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Utah and CEO of the Huntsman Mental Health Institute. Rappaport discusses the impact of COVID-19 on mental health and the brain, stating that the pandemic has created a second mental health and substance use disorder pandemic. He highlights the profound effects the pandemic has had on individuals, families, workplaces, and society as a whole, including increased symptoms of anxiety, depression, guilt, grief, and substance abuse. Rappaport emphasizes the importance of providing support and intervention strategies tailored to the needs of different individuals and age groups. He suggests public interventions such as acknowledging experiences and feelings, creating comfortable spaces to share and receive support, and providing access to resources and wellness programs. Rappaport also recommends strategies for healthcare systems, including encouraging dialogue, providing mental health triage visits, and offering 24/7 access to care. He notes the prevalence of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and its challenging nature to treat, but highlights evidence-based psychotherapies and medications that have shown effectiveness. Rappaport concludes by discussing the potential biological mechanisms of COVID-19 on the brain, including peripheral inflammation and the virus's neurotropic nature. He presents research on brain changes associated with COVID-19 and emphasizes the need for further studies on prevention and treatment interventions. Overall, Rappaport underscores the importance of addressing the mental health implications of the COVID-19 pandemic and providing support for those affected.

Keywords

Mark Rappaport

COVID-19

mental health

substance use disorder

anxiety

depression

support

intervention strategies

PTSD

biological mechanisms