Trauma- and stressor-related symptom trajectories during a pandemic: stress, trauma, resilience and service use.

The COVID-19 pandemic has confronted individuals to various stressors, some traumatic, others not. According to meta-analytic data, an average of 18% prevalence rate of trauma- and stressor-related symptoms were found in international samples. However, no studies have yet investigated the long-term impacts of such symptoms. My PhD project aims to study the longitudinal trajectories of symptoms of trauma- and stressor-related symptoms among Canadians, identify factors related to their development overtime, and characterize Canadian mental health service use. To achieve this aim, I will be using both online self-report surveys and structured diagnostic interviews to document the longitudinal course of these symptoms, to explore the various factors that may influence the development of disorders, and to explore service uses. The COVID-19 pandemic has brought unprecedented challenges both for people and society. Its long-term effect on mental health is still unknown, my PhD project will provide important information for healthcare providers and policy makers to identify both the consequences of the pandemic and suitable mental health interventions for Canadians.