Date of Submission

2026

Degree Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Psychology (PsyD)

Department

Psychology

Department Chair

Stephanie Felgoise, PhD, ABPP

First Advisor

Susan Panichelli Mindel, PhD

Second Advisor

Leslie Fernandez, PsyD

Third Advisor

Erick Weinstein, PhD

Abstract

Since the emergence of the novel coronavirus, a significant portion of the global population has transitioned from acute infection to Long COVID, a multisystemic condition characterized by persistent symptoms lasting 4 weeks or longer. This study investigated the psychological impact of Long COVID, to explore rates of anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and quality of life in people with Long COVID compared to those without it. A quantitative survey-based design was employed with a sample of 310 adults (Aged 18 to 90; M = 48.2). Participants completed validated instruments, including the Long COVID Questionnaire, Short Form Health Survey, General Anxiety Disorder-7, Patient Health Questionnaire-9, and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Checklist. Findings revealed that individuals with Long COVID experienced lower quality of life and increased anxiety, depression, and PTSD. Of those with Long COVID, those with more severe symptoms exhibited lower quality of life and higher scores of depression and PTSD. Notably, anxiety scores did not differ significantly. The results from this study also indicated that women reported significantly higher levels of anxiety than males and that younger individuals reported significantly higher levels of anxiety compared to older individuals. Understanding that Long COVID may put people at risk for psychological difficulties is crucial as healthcare professionals can proactively screen patients for mental health symptoms, allowing for early diagnosis and intervention.

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