[Zer0 (OP)]

How has the Pandemic affected people in general overall?

Are there any specific psychological after effects being observed with infected individuals after recovery?

I found something online stating...

" Meanwhile, COVID-19 itself can lead to neurological and mental complications, such as delirium, agitation, and stroke. People with pre-existing mental, neurological or substance use disorders are also more vulnerable to SARS-CoV-2 infection they may stand a higher risk of severe outcomes and even death. "
(Anonymous Source)

How True or Correct is the above quoted Information?

[evan_au]

SARS-COV2 infects any cell exposing the ACE2 receptor. This includes the endothelial cells lining the fine blood vessels (capillaries), which feed all body tissues (including the brain).
- Brain function may be indirectly affected by inflammation of the blood vessels
- Or lack of oxygen due to lung scarring

One of the more unique symptoms of COVID infection is the loss of taste/smell - this virus infects and kills odor-receptor nerves in the nose.
- These nerves are like an extension of the brain that is in contact with the outside world
- That led to concerns that perhaps COVID-19 could infect and kill brain cells
- MRI brain studies suggest that COVID infection does correlate with a faster reduction in brain tissue (compared to normal aging in people who did not catch COVID).
- In many people, the sense of smell does return after a month or so. Like most peripheral nerves, the nerves in the nose can regrow after damage*.
- However, the bulk of the brain (and the central nervous system generally) is less able to regenerate after damage. This means that rehabilitation may be needed to help COVID victims relearn skills, using remaining, undamaged parts of the brain.   
* Unfortunately, the nerves carrying the sense of smell sometimes miswire when they regrow, leaving people unable to stomach their favorite foods.

One of the less-unique symptoms of Long COVID is described as "brain fog", an inability to think clearly, sometimes lasting months.
- This symptom is also seen in post-viral syndrome of other infections like Epstein-Barr virus (which causes Glandular Fever/Mononucleosis)
- Some studies using IQ-style tests show a cognitive decline following COVID infection.

See: https://www.thelancet.com/journals/eclinm/article/PIIS2589-5370(21)00324-2/fulltext