CASE REPORT: Depression and Suicidality in a COVID-19 Patient: A Case Report from Calabar, Nigeria

West Afr J Med. 2022 May; 39(5): 548-551

Abstract

Background: The coronavirus pandemic is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. While physical recovery has been made a priority, the psychological wellbeing of recovered patients is not receiving the attention it deserves.

Case presentation: We present the case of a 27-year-old male who developed severe depression associated with anxiety and suicidal ideations two weeks after full recovery from COVID- 19 infection. Significant somatization was also present at the onset which he misattributed to a recurrence of the infection. He was admitted for in-patient psychiatric care and fully recovered after six weeks of medication and psychotherapy.

Conclusion: Infection with the virus is a psychologically distressing experience that can trigger mental disorders in vulnerable individuals. Our report highlights the mental health needs of all COVID-19 patients and the need for psychological evaluation in the post-recovery period.

Authors B E Edet ¹, E A Essien ¹, M B Ugobo ¹, C J Okafor ², E O Olose ², V A Essien ¹