Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic is a major force that changed society in a short time. Societal measures to limit the spread of the virus disrupted the daily routines of individuals in households, workplaces and the community at large. An abundance of stressors (e.g. financial, health worries, homeschooling) in the absence of traditional sources of support (e.g, family, friends, religious gatherings) acts to increase levels of stress, anxiety and depression in the population. Moreover, after nearly 180 million cases of COVID-19 worldwide, we have an increased understanding of the impact of COVID-19 infection on mental health. Psychiatric complications from COVID-19 infection have also been observed as part of "long-COVID". The following presentation will review four systematic/scoping reviews authored by the presenter: 1) a meta-analysis on the prevalence of mental health distress in the general population; 2) a review on the neuropsychiatric complications (mainly delirium) of COVID-19; 3) a synthesis of the psychosocial interventions to address mental health issues emerging during COVID-19; 4) a scoping review of web-based applications to support mental health during COVID-19. Methods: Each systematic review followed the PRISMA guidelines and scoping reviews adhered to the Arksey and O'Malley framework for scoping reviews. Additional literature and published resources will also supplement findings from the 4 review papers.

Results: Data from existing studies of mental health distress in the general population did not show an increase in mental health distress for the first 6-9 months of the pandemic. Risk factors have been identified for specific populations although longitudinal data is needed. Nearly one third of patients can develop Long COVID symptoms and severe infection and delirium can increase risk. Neuropsychiatric complications of COVID-19 have been linked to neuroinflammation and potentially thromboemboli from COVID-19. In terms of interventions, cognitive behavioural therapy and supportive calls have emerging evidence in managing mental health during COVID-19. Digital mental health interventions are available; however, interventions tailored to specific populations and attending to diverse populations in Canada is lacking.

Conclusion: Further research is needed to provide longitudinal on the impact of COVID-19 on mental health including evidence on effective interventions.