Longitudinal patterns of depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms during COVID-19 pandemic

This study aimed to investigate the impact of traumatic events on mental health, focusing on the peak of the pandemic from 2020 to 2021. Using latent transitional analysis, the research revealed evolving patterns of PTSD symptoms, depression, and anxiety, along with the changing and consistent impact of various predictors. The results indicated two subgroups (low symptom and high symptom) at T1, and three subgroups (low symptom, moderate symptom, and high symptom) at T2. Significant predictors of group membership at both T1 and T2 were gender, general fear of the COVID-19 situation, and avoidance coping. General fear of the COVID-19 situation significantly influenced group transitions. These findings provide insights into the nuanced influences on psychological distress during the global crisis, emphasising the need to address gender-specific concerns and general fear related to COVID-19 as significant factors influencing symptom levels and transitions over time.