A description of COVID-19 related delusional content in admissions to an acute psychiatric unit

Abstract

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic had a profound global impact, affecting individuals, including those with mental illness, through early and widespread information dissemination. Although the neurobiological basis of delusions remains unclear, external stimuli and historical events are known to influence them. The pandemic provided a unique opportunity to explore this phenomenon.

Aim: To determine the prevalence of COVID-19-related delusional content, among individuals presenting for treatment of psychosis during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic and investigate associated clinical and demographic factors.

Setting: Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital in-patient psychiatry department.

Methods: Data were extracted retrospectively from adult psychiatric admissions spanning April to September 2020 on patients whose presenting complaints included delusions. Demographic factors, symptoms, psychiatric, medical and substance use history, and a documented Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) diagnosis by the attending psychiatrist were collected.

Results: The prevalence of COVID-19-related delusional content was 25.5%. Significant demographic association was observed with education level of Grade 12 and above (p = 0.000338). The odds of a diagnosis of schizophrenia and related disorders were 2.72 times greater than mood and psychotic disorder due to another medical condition in those with COVID- 19-related delusional content (OR 2.19, 95% CI: [1.4-3.4]).

Conclusion: The presence of COVID-19-related delusional content in patients admitted to hospital with psychosis provides further evidence of the role of external stimuli in the formation of delusions.

Contribution: This study underscores the influence of socio-cultural factors on delusions and advocates for interventions and expanded research to address mental health outcomes.