Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Diagnosis of Mood Disorders in Brazil

Abstract

Mood disorders, including major depression and bipolar disorder, represent a significant public health concern, affecting millions of people in Brazil and worldwide. The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated this issue by increasing risk factors such as social isolation, economic insecurity, and grief. This study aims to analyze the trends in reported cases of mood disorders in Brazil from 2017 to 2023, considering the pandemic’s impact and variations by age group and sex. This is a descriptive-analytical epidemiological study based on data from the Notifiable Diseases Information System (SINAN), obtained through DATASUS. Reports of mood disorders from 2017 to 2023 were analyzed, categorized by age group and sex. Since the study used publicly available data, ethical approval was not required, in accordance with CNS Resolution No. 510/2016. A total of 3,214 cases of mood disorders were reported in Brazil between 2017 and 2023. The number of notifications increased by 40.8%, from 488 cases in 2017 to 687 in 2023. Most cases were recorded in individuals over 30 years old (85.1%), followed by young adults aged 15 to 29 years (14.7%). Additionally, women accounted for 70.5% of the reported cases, highlighting a significant gender disparity. The findings suggest a substantial impact of the pandemic on mood disorder incidence, particularly among young people and women. Social isolation, financial uncertainties, and increased social media use may have contributed to this rise. The gender disparity aligns with previous research pointing to biological and sociocultural factors as key determinants of women’s greater vulnerability. The data reinforce the need to strengthen public policies on mental health, including expanded access to specialized services and prevention programs. Further research is essential to monitor the trends in mood disorders in Brazil and assess the effectiveness of implemented strategies.