The Intersectionality Between Experiencing Cardiac Concerns Related To Covid-19 And Mood Disorders Among Collegiate Athletes

Physical manifestations related to a COVID-19 diagnosis have been studied, but gaps exist in recognizing COVID-19 diagnosis and associated mental health. PURPOSE: This study evaluates the presence of short-term and persistent cardiac symptoms among collegiate athletes diagnosed with COVID-19 and its association with anxiety or depression symptoms. METHODS: Data was collected during pre-participation screening with NCAA Division II collegiate athletes (n = 1730) from 2021-2023. COVID-19 history and symptoms experienced were self-reported via REDCap. Anxiety and depression were evaluated using the GAD-7 and PHQ-9, respectively. Differences between groups were assessed with Chi-Square and correlations with Pearsons Correlation Coefficient. RESULTS: The presence of anxiety and depression symptoms (GAD-7, PHQ-9) were statistically significant among athletes who self-reported experiencing cardiac-related symptoms related to COVID-19 (n = 625), including shortness of breath (0.10 (p < 0.001), 0.10 (p < 0.001)), chest pain (0.09 (p < 0.001), 0.08 (p < 0.001)), fatigue (0.10 (p < 0.001), 0.10 (p < 0.001)), and rapid heartbeat (0.09 (p < 0.001), 0.11 (p < 0.001)). Results were not statistically significant for athletes who reported experiencing palpitations (-0.01 (p = 0.68), 0.02 (p = 0.53)) or leg swelling (0.01 (p = 0.66), 0.03 (p = 0.18). No statistically significant correlation was determined between athletes who self-reported experiencing persistent cardiac symptoms related to COVID-19 and mood disorders. CONCLUSIONS: Experiencing common cardiac symptoms in the interim after a COVID-19 diagnosis appears to correlate with mood disorders among collegiate athletes. However, correlation values were minimal, and these values are not necessarily clinically significant. These findings highlight the importance of emphasizing mental health support for athletes amid the development of physical symptoms to ensure optimal performance.