HOSPITALIZATION'S IMPACT ON PATIENTS' MENTAL AND EMOTIONAL HEALTH: SYSTEMATIC REVIEW

Abstract

Background: Hospitalization is often necessary for the treatment of acute and chronic illnesses but is also a major psychosocial stressor that affects patients’ mental health and emotional well-being. This systematic review investigates the psychological impacts of hospitalization across different age groups and clinical settings, including during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods: A systematic review was conducted according to PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Eligible studies included peer-reviewed empirical research published between 1980 and 2024, focusing on psychological outcomes (e.g., depression, anxiety, stress) in hospitalized populations. Databases searched included PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar. A total of 22 studies were included, encompassing children, adults, elderly, and COVID-19 patients.

Results: Hospitalization consistently induced anxiety, depression, and emotional distress in patients, with elevated vulnerability in pediatric, elderly, obstetric, and psychiatric populations. Key stressors included unfamiliar environments, invasive procedures, social isolation, and lack of family engagement. Social support and spiritual well-being were found to buffer negative outcomes. Family members and caregivers also experienced secondary emotional impacts. COVID-19-related hospitalizations revealed heightened and lasting psychological burden.

Conclusion: Hospitalization imposes a significant mental health burden that extends beyond the clinical illness itself. Integrative care models incorporating mental health support, psychosocial interventions, and caregiver inclusion are urgently needed. Future studies should assess long-term outcomes and test scalable intervention strategies.