Researchers from the University of Warwick in the United Kingdom reported that group psychotherapy helped people dealing with long-term COVID-19 reduce apathy, fatigue, and depressive symptoms. The findings were published in a major medical journal to share insights with clinicians and caregivers worldwide.
The study involved 585 adults living with persistent COVID-19 symptoms. Participants were randomly assigned to two different care pathways. One group took part in a single psychotherapy session and then received ongoing support from a qualified practitioner. The second group joined an eight-week REGAIN program that blended group psychotherapy with regular online check-ins with a physician, physical exercise, and home-based assignments.
Over a three-month period, the REGAIN group reported that about 17% experienced an overall improvement in health status. By comparison, roughly 8% of the single-session group described similar gains. In addition, members of the REGAIN cohort often reported improvements in both their mental state and physical well-being. They noted reductions in the severity of depressive symptoms and a decrease in fatigue, suggesting a broader positive impact on daily functioning.
The researchers suggest that combining psychotherapy with structured medical and lifestyle support could enhance the quality of life for many people with long-term COVID-19. While recognizing organizational challenges ahead, they advocate for broader adoption of this multimodal approach as a potential standard of care in the future.
Earlier work has shown that signs of depression can appear in facial expressions or eye cues, reflecting the global effort to identify early indicators of mood changes in patients. This newer study adds to the evidence that integrated treatment plans can yield meaningful improvements for those living with lingering symptoms after COVID-19.
Citation notes emphasize that the observed benefits emerged from a combination of psychological support, peer interaction, physical activity, and regular professional oversight. As health systems continue to adapt to evolving needs, this model offers a practical framework for delivering comprehensive care to a growing patient population in North America and beyond. [1]