Mental Health Outcomes of Post-COVID Patients: A Clinical Psychology Study in Darbhanga District

The present study titled “Mental Health Outcomes of Post-COVID Patients: A Clinical Psychology Study in Darbhanga District” investigates the psychological consequences faced by individuals recovering from COVID-19. The primary objectives were to assess levels of psychological distress, coping strategies, stigma perception, social support, and treatment adherence, and to explore subgroup differences based on gender, residence, and treatment-seeking status. A total of 117 participants were recruited through random sampling from hospital records, community health centers, and local initiatives. Data were collected using the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K10), Brief COPE Inventory, and a structured sociodemographic sheet. Both descriptive statistics and inferential techniques were employed. Independent samples t-tests were conducted to compare psychological distress and coping patterns across subgroups. Findings indicated that participants reported moderate levels of psychological distress (M = 24.47), with problem-focused coping slightly more prevalent than emotion-focused or avoidance strategies. Stigma perception remained substantial, though social support was generally high. Female participants reported higher psychological distress (M = 26.02) than males (M = 23.50); the difference approached statistical significance (p = 0.066) with a small-to-moderate effect size. The study highlights the need for gender-sensitive psychosocial interventions, stigma reduction programs, and community-based counseling. Drawing parallels with tuberculosis (TB) stigma literature, the findings suggest that integrating psychological care into routine medical follow-up can enhance recovery outcomes for post-COVID populations.