PICS can manifest as problems with physical function, cognition and mental health, according to a fact sheet from the American Thoracic Society. PICS is a relatively under-recognized issue, despite the fact that it affects a large number of people treated in an ICU, according to Patricia Ohtake, PT, Ph.D., an associate professor in the physical therapy program in the University at Buffalo's School of Public Health and Health Professions. Ohtake has tailored her recent research on the rehabilitation of ICU survivors to reflect working with COVID-19 patients, particularly how physical therapy can aid in their recovery at home.

The COVID-19 pandemic has led to vastly increased admissions into intensive care units (ICU). Around one in four ICU patients develop PTSD symptoms after the admission. Other disorders, including depression and various anxiety disorders are also common.This guide aims to provide information for therapists working with patients who have developed PTSD after an ICU admission, or a similar medical environment.

Coronavirus (COVID-19): Various news reports in recent weeks have pointed out that for some Covid-19 patients who needed intensive care, the journey to recovery is a long one. After leaving the ICU, they may suffer from what is known as post-intensive care syndrome (PICS), which can happen to any person who has been in the ICU.