Long COVID is still widely misunderstood, even as more people experience its effects. Many people—including some doctors—still have outdated or incorrect ideas about what it is, who it affects, and how to treat it. These misconceptions can make it harder for those with long COVID to get the support they need.
In this blog, we’ll explore five of the biggest misconceptions about long COVID and uncover the truth behind them.
1. “Long COVID Only Affects People Who Had Severe COVID-19”
Many people assume that long COVID only happens after a severe case of COVID-19, but research shows that even mild or asymptomatic cases can lead to long-term symptoms. In fact, some people with long COVID barely felt sick during their initial infection but developed fatigue, brain fog, and other symptoms weeks or months later.
This means anyone who has had COVID-19 is at risk, regardless of the severity of their illness. If you’re struggling with post-viral symptoms, this video on post-viral recovery offers helpful insights.
2. “Long COVID Is Just Anxiety or Depression”
Because long COVID symptoms are hard to measure with standard tests, some doctors incorrectly assume they are caused by stress, anxiety, or depression. While mental health struggles can occur alongside long COVID, they are not the root cause.
Studies have found biological changes in people with long COVID, including:
- Inflammation in the brain and nervous system
- Immune system abnormalities
- Problems with energy production (mitochondrial dysfunction)
Long COVID is a real, physiological condition, not just a mental health issue. For more on how the nervous system plays a role, check out this video on calming the nervous system.
3. “Long COVID Is Just Fatigue—You Need to Exercise More”
Many people assume that long COVID is just regular tiredness and can be improved with exercise. However, post-exertional malaise (PEM)—a key feature of long COVID—means that too much activity can actually make symptoms worse.
Unlike normal fatigue, PEM can cause a delayed symptom crash, making it essential to practice pacing instead of pushing through exhaustion. If you’re struggling with energy management, this video on pacing explains how to avoid crashes.
4. “Long COVID Only Lasts a Few Months”
While some people recover from long COVID within a few months, others experience symptoms for a year or more. Studies suggest that 10-30% of people who get COVID-19 develop lingering symptoms, and some cases last for years.
- Recovery timelines vary, and healing is often nonlinear, meaning symptoms may come and go. If your symptoms are lasting longer than expected, this video on long COVID recovery can provide guidance.
5. “There’s No Treatment for Long COVID—You Just Have to Live With It”
While there’s no one-size-fits-all cure, long COVID can be managed with the right strategies. Treatment options include:
- Medications like Low-Dose Naltrexone (LDN) and antihistamines
- Pacing techniques to prevent energy crashes
- Brain fog recovery strategies
- Nervous system retraining to reduce symptoms
Many people see improvements with time and the right approach. If you’re looking for treatment options, this video on recovery strategies explores ways to support healing.
Final Thoughts
Misinformation about long COVID can make it harder for those affected to get the care they need. It’s not just in your head, it’s not just normal fatigue, and it’s not something you have to live with forever. Understanding the truth behind these misconceptions is an important step toward recovery.
For more guidance and resources on long COVID, visit the Solutions section of our website. You’re not alone, and progress is possible.