BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic marked an unprecedented event in contemporary history, with impacts extending beyond the biological dimension of SARS-CoV-2 infection to social, economic, and psychological domains. OBJECTIVE To analyze the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on post-pandemic mental health, identifying the most prevalent symptoms, risk factors, and coping strategies. METHODS Systematic literature review conducted according to PRISMA guidelines, using open-access databases (Google Scholar and PubMed) with articles published between 2021 and 2025, in English or Portuguese, full-text available, and focused on human studies. Inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied rigorously, and data were extracted in a standardized manner for qualitative analysis of neuropsychiatric effects, psychosocial factors, and mental health coping strategies. RESULTS A total of 26 studies were included. Depression and anxiety were the most prevalent symptoms (20–45%), while brief psychosis, acute mania, and post-COVID-19 encephalitis were less frequently reported. Risk factors included social isolation, unemployment, and comorbidities, with significant impact on children, adolescents, older adults, and healthcare professionals. Effective interventions included physical activity, psychological resilience programs, social support, and continuous clinical monitoring. CONCLUSIONS The COVID-19 pandemic had significant physical, mental, and social health impacts, particularly among vulnerable groups. Integrated strategies promoting well-being, psychological support, and clinical follow-up are essential to mitigate adverse effects. Public and institutional policies should prioritize actions targeting at-risk populations, and future research should include longitudinal studies and quantitative meta-analysis to strengthen existing evidence.
Bárbara Aline Ferreira Assunção (Mon,) studied this question.