Results

Our study aimed to identify trajectories for different components of mental health during a two-year follow-up of the COVID-19 pandemic, contextualizing them according to pandemic periods. We investigated the associations between mental health trajectories and various exposures, determining if differences existed among different mental health outcomes regarding these associations. We identified three latent trajectories for the studied outcomes, distinguishing between 'resilient' and 'chronic-worsening.' Overall, global health, cognitive health, and coping strategies were identified as common protective factors. Our results support heterogeneity in reactions to the pandemic and the need to study different mental health components over a longer follow-up. Understanding modifiable protective and risk factors associated with these trajectories would allow targeted interventions for specific population segments.

The COVID-19 pandemic provides a unique opportunity to investigate the psychological impact of a global major adverse situation. Our aim was to examine, in a longitudinal prospective study, the demographic, psychological, and neurobiological factors associated with interindividual differences in resilience to the mental health impact of the pandemic.