Experiencing Awe May Boost Mental Health in Long COVID Patients

Experiencing moments of awe—feelings of wonder and amazement inspired by encounters with something vast or extraordinary—might have beneficial effects on the mental well-being of individuals suffering from long COVID. Awe is a universal emotion often triggered by natural phenomena, artistic expression, or spiritual experiences, and it has been linked to improved health outcomes.

A recent study led by Javier E. López, a cardiovascular medicine professor at UC Davis Health, explored how awe could help mitigate mental health issues common in long COVID patients. The research, published in Scientific Reports, is the first of its kind to systematically investigate the mental health benefits of awe for those dealing with long-term COVID-19 symptoms.

"Awe is triggered when we encounter something that is larger or more complex than ourselves," López explained. "It doesn't have to be a rare event; everyday moments like a beautiful sunset or a powerful piece of music can evoke awe and potentially offer health benefits."

The study involved 68 individuals diagnosed with long COVID, as defined by the CDC. Participants were divided into two groups: one was encouraged to engage in activities designed to produce feelings of awe—such as watching inspiring videos or walking in nature—while the other continued their usual routines. Researchers measured levels of depression, anxiety, stress, and overall well-being before and after the intervention.

Results indicated that those who engaged in awe-inducing activities experienced significant reductions in depression and stress, along with an increase in overall well-being. However, the study did not find a notable difference in anxiety levels between the two groups. These findings suggest that incorporating simple, low-cost awe experiences into daily life could be a promising strategy to support mental health among long COVID sufferers.

This research underscores the importance of integrating emotional and psychological wellness practices, such as experiencing awe, into comprehensive care for long COVID. Experts like Keltner emphasize that such approaches could be part of holistic strategies to improve health outcomes. As Dr. López and colleagues point out, even brief moments of awe can help foster resilience and mental clarity during challenging times.

Long COVID affects approximately 20 million people in the U.S., with symptoms ranging from fatigue and brain fog to heart and respiratory issues. The mental toll is significant, with many patients experiencing ongoing depression and anxiety. The study offers hope that simple activities emphasizing awe can serve as accessible tools in mental health management for these individuals.

Further research is needed to understand the mechanisms behind awe's benefits and how they can be optimized. Nonetheless, this study signals a meaningful step toward novel, holistic methods for improving mental health in long COVID and potentially other conditions through the power of awe.