International study on the physical and mental stress of the coronavirus pandemic
A large-scale study involving the Medical Center - University of Freiburg is investigating the health effects of the coronavirus crisis. Those particularly affected could be identified and treated at an early stage
The coronavirus pandemic has led to major changes for many people around the world. Around 200 scientists from more than 40 countries are now investigating the acute and long-term effects of the coronavirus pandemic on physical and mental well-being in a unique international study. The Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy at the Medical Center - University of Freiburg is also involved in the COH-FIT study ("Collaborative Outcomes Study on Health and Functioning during Infection Times"). The findings should help to provide targeted support for people who are particularly affected with coping strategies. More than 25,000 people have already taken part in the study. Anyone interested can find more information and the survey at www.coh-fit.com. The data is collected anonymously.
Support for people in times of crisis
"This currently unique situation can be used to obtain groundbreaking information from the population and how they are dealing with the pandemic," says Professor Dr. Dr. Katharina Domschke, Medical Director of the Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy at the Medical Center - University of Freiburg. "Our aim is to provide people with better therapeutic support in times of crisis," says Domschke. The data should also help to identify people who are at an increased risk of physical and mental health problems during a pandemic. People who are particularly at risk can be offered targeted therapy. "In this way, we can better anticipate, reduce and perhaps even prevent short-term and long-term mental stress in the future," says Domschke.
Survey during and after the pandemic
The COH-FIT project collects information from adults and, with the consent of their parents or guardians, also from young people and children aged six and over. In the first of three phases now underway, people are being surveyed during the coronavirus pandemic. Follow-up surveys will take place in phases two and three, six and twelve months after the end of the pandemic.
International cooperation
The study, which is available in 25 languages, is being led by Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, the Zucker School of Medicine New York, USA, the University of Padua, Italy and Kings College London, United Kingdom. The project is supported by various national and international professional organizations.
Contact for press inquiries
Prof. Dr. Dr. Katharina Domschke
Medical Director
Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy
Medical Center - University of Freiburg
Phone: 0761 270-65050
katharina.domschke@uniklinik-freiburg.de
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