How Does a COVID-19 ICU Stay Impact Family Members' Mental Health?

What you need to know

• Nearly 40% of family members experience anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder 12 months after their loved one’s ICU stay
• Mental health symptoms are most severe at 3 months but remain significantly elevated at 12 months compared to pre-ICU levels
• Family members who had mental health symptoms before the ICU stay are at highest risk for long-term mental health challenges

The Hidden Impact on Families

When a loved one is admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) with severe COVID-19, the focus naturally falls on the patient’s medical condition. However, this traumatic experience can deeply affect family members as well, creating ripple effects that last long after the patient returns home. The isolation, uncertainty, and stress of having a loved one in critical condition takes a significant emotional toll on families - one that deserves greater attention and support.

A Year-Long Journey of Mental Health Challenges

This groundbreaking study followed 166 family members of COVID-19 ICU survivors over 12 months. Before the ICU stay, about 22% of family members reported mental health symptoms. This jumped dramatically to 46% at 3 months after ICU admission and remained elevated at 38% even a year later. The most common issues were anxiety (29%), depression (23%), and post-traumatic stress disorder (20%).

Beyond Emotional Impact

The mental health toll extended into practical life areas as well. Among family members who were employed, 28% experienced work-related problems a year later - some reduced their hours, took extended sick leave, or stopped working entirely. Quality of life scores also showed significant declines, particularly in mental well-being, which remained below pre-ICU levels at the 12-month mark.

Risk Factors and Vulnerabilities

The research identified that family members who had anxiety or depression before the ICU stay were 5-9 times more likely to experience mental health symptoms a year later. This highlights the importance of identifying vulnerable family members early and providing targeted support.

What This Means for You

If you have a loved one who has been in the ICU with COVID-19, know that it’s normal and common to experience emotional difficulties. Consider these steps:

• Monitor yourself for persistent feelings of anxiety, depression, or trauma
• Don’t hesitate to seek professional mental health support
• Join support groups for families of ICU patients
• Be open with employers about needed accommodations
• Practice self-care and stress management techniques
• Stay connected with family and friends for emotional support

Conclusions

• The mental health impact of having a loved one in the ICU for COVID-19 can last long after discharge
• Early identification of at-risk family members could help prevent long-term mental health problems
• Healthcare systems need to develop better support systems for families during and after ICU stays