Their research found patients who had COVID-19 were 60% more likely to suffer from mental health problems than those who were not infected. When hospitalized, the likelihood jumped to 86%.
When asked why Al-Aly said there is no exact cause yet but research shows SARS-Co-V-2 can enter and affect the brain.
"COVID-19 can enter the brain and can also lead to alterations in brain chemistry and brain architecture," he said, adding "that may affect mood centers and affect centers in the brain — like the amygdala and other areas — that are responsible for us feeling good and feeling content and feeling happy."