The COVID-19 pandemic continues to cast a long shadow on mental health, with significant increases in reported symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress in Germany, according to a new analysis of data from nearly 80,000 adults. The study, published in 2026 by the Deutsches Ärzteblatt International, reveals a particularly pronounced impact on younger adults under 40 and women. Understanding the long-term psychological consequences of the pandemic is crucial for developing targeted prevention and care strategies, researchers say.
The analysis, stemming from the ongoing NAKO (National Cohort) health study, compared self-reported mental health data collected at three distinct points: before the pandemic (2014-2019), during its early phase in spring 2020, and in the later phase of autumn 2022. This longitudinal approach allows for a clear assessment of how the pandemic’s onset and progression affected the psychological well-being of the German population. The findings underscore the need for sustained attention to mental health support as societies navigate the ongoing effects of the global crisis.
The data reveal a concerning trend: the proportion of participants reporting depressive symptoms rose from 5.9% before the pandemic to 9.7% in autumn 2022. Similarly, moderate to severe anxiety symptoms increased from 3.9% to 6.2%, while reports of moderate to strong stress climbed from 4.1% to 10.2%. Notably, the study found a more than doubling in the number of individuals experiencing all three conditions – depression, anxiety, and stress – simultaneously. This suggests a compounding effect, where the pandemic exacerbated existing vulnerabilities or created new ones.
Pandemic’s Uneven Impact: Younger Adults and Women Most Affected
While the pandemic impacted mental health across demographics, the NAKO study highlights significant disparities. Younger adults under the age of 40 experienced a disproportionately higher burden of psychological distress compared to older age groups. This finding aligns with other research indicating that younger individuals faced unique challenges during the pandemic, including disruptions to education, employment, and social life. Women likewise reported higher levels of mental health challenges than men, a trend observed in numerous studies globally. Researchers suggest this may be linked to factors such as increased caregiving responsibilities and economic insecurity.
“Our study shows that the pandemic has left its mark on mental health – and not just in the short term, but up to the later phases of the pandemic,” said Annette Peters, chair of the NAKO board and director of the Institute for Epidemiology at Helmholtz Munich, in a statement accompanying the study’s release. The long-lasting effects of the pandemic on mental well-being are a growing concern for public health officials and researchers alike.
The NAKO Health Study: A Comprehensive Look at German Health
The NAKO health study is one of Germany’s largest and most comprehensive long-term population studies. Launched in 2014, the study involves over 205,000 randomly selected citizens aged 20 to 69 who are continuously monitored through medical examinations and lifestyle questionnaires across 18 study centers. The breadth and depth of the NAKO data provide a valuable resource for understanding the complex interplay between health, lifestyle, and environmental factors. The study’s ongoing nature allows researchers to track changes in health trends over time and identify emerging health challenges, such as the mental health consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic. More information about the NAKO study and its findings can be found on the NAKO website.
Increased Stress and Anxiety During COVID-19
The NAKO study isn’t alone in documenting the rise in mental health issues during the pandemic. The study’s findings echo global trends, with numerous reports indicating increased rates of anxiety and depression worldwide. The pandemic’s disruptions to daily life, coupled with fears about infection and economic uncertainty, created a perfect storm for mental health challenges. The study’s focus on Germany provides valuable insights into the specific impact of the pandemic on the German population, informing targeted interventions and support services.
Researchers also found that feelings of loneliness increased during the pandemic. According to NAKO data, 32% of participants reported feeling lonely during the pandemic, with a higher percentage among women (37%) compared to men (26%). Older individuals were less affected by loneliness than younger people. Half of the participants reported feeling lonelier during the first lockdown than before.
Looking Ahead: Addressing the Mental Health Crisis
The findings from the NAKO study underscore the urgent need for increased investment in mental health services and prevention programs. Targeted interventions are particularly crucial for vulnerable populations, such as younger adults and women. The study’s authors emphasize the importance of addressing the long-term psychological consequences of the pandemic to mitigate its lasting impact on individuals and society. Further research is needed to understand the specific factors that contribute to pandemic-related mental health challenges and to develop effective strategies for promoting resilience and well-being.
The NAKO study will continue to track the mental health of its participants in the years to come, providing valuable data on the long-term effects of the pandemic. The next major data release from the NAKO study is expected in late 2027, which will include further analysis of the pandemic’s impact on various health outcomes.
If you are struggling with feelings of depression, anxiety, or stress, please reach out for help. You can contact the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) helpline at 1-800-950-NAMI (6264) or visit their website at https://www.nami.org/. Additional resources are available from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) at https://www.samhsa.gov/.
What are your thoughts on the long-term mental health impacts of the pandemic? Share your experiences and perspectives in the comments below.
