Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has left many survivors experiencing prolonged physical and mental health challenges, even after clinical recovery. Post-COVID-19 symptoms, including fatigue, breathlessness, depression, and anxiety, have been prevalent among survivors. The study aims to assess the functional status and mental health of post- COVID-19 patients in Maharashtra, India.

Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 114 post-COVID- 19 patients admitted to a dedicated COVID-19 hospital in Mumbai. Functional status was assessed using the post-COVID- 19 Functional Status (PCFS) scale, while mental health was evaluated using the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-21). Data were collected through structured interviews, and statistical analyses, including chi-square tests and linear regression models, were employed.

Results: The study found that 19 (16.7%) patients had no functional limitations, 48 (42.1%) had negligible limitations (PCFS grade 1), 15 (13.2%) patients experienced severe functional limitations (PCFS grade 4). In terms of mental health, 70 (61.4%) patients showed no signs of depression, while mild to severe depression affected 27 (23.68%) patients. Anxiety and stress were reported in 21.1% and 14.04% of patients, respectively. Multiple regression analysis revealed significant relationships between functional status and depression (p < 0.001), stress (p = 0.002), and anxiety (p < 0.001), with depression showing the strongest impact on post-COVID functional recovery.

Conclusion: Post-COVID-19 patients in Maharashtra face significant functional limitations, with depression being the most influential psychological factor affecting recovery.

Gauri Bharadwaj, MBBS, MD, DNB, is a dedicated public health professional with strong experience in maternal and child health, nutrition, and non-communicable disease (NCD) prevention. Bharadwaj earned her MD in community medicine from Grant Government Medical College and J.J. Group of Hospitals, Mumbai, where she worked extensively in tribal regions of Maharashtra, focusing on maternal and child healthcare. She led nutritional assessment surveys, provided individualized counselling, and developed expertise in diet planning for patients with diabetes, hypertension, and other nutritional needs.