ORGANIZATION OF PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSISTANCE FOR COVID-19 PATIENTS

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused significant changes in the psycho-emotional state of people, including patients, healthcare workers and the wider public. Studies show that the course of the disease is accompanied not only by physical symptoms, but also by a strong psycho-emotional burden: fear for life, uncertainty about the future, isolation, and social stigma. It has been found that the psycho-emotional reactions of patients depend on age, gender, stage of the disease, and individual personality characteristics. Older people with chronic diseases experience greater anxiety, women express emotions more openly, while men are more likely to suppress feelings and may show aggression. The article summarizes the effectiveness of psychosocial interventions, including online psychological support, group interventions, psycho- educational activities, and cognitive-behavioral therapy. It has been shown that such interventions reduce the level of anxiety, depression, and psychological distress, contribute to the formation of internal resilience and the development of stress coping skills. Particular attention is paid to an approach based on the development of personal strengths and the formation of resource thinking, which helps patients adapt to stressful situations without developing psychopathology. An important factor in supporting mental health is social support from family, community and medical professionals, as well as cultural and religious resources. International practices in organizing psychological care are considered, including the creation of multidisciplinary teams in hospitals, the provision of online consultations, and information materials for the population. Additionally, the problems of social stigma and the need to overcome it through communication and education are highlighted. It is concluded that a systematic approach to psychosocial support for patients with COVID-19 includes the development of resilience, the use of online interventions, the active involvement of the patient in the process of self- support, and the integration of psychotherapeutic techniques, in particular art therapy. Such approaches are necessary to ensure mental well-being, adaptation to the «new norm», and the full recovery of patients after the pandemic.