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Background and aims: Emotional distress is widespread among individuals recovering from COVID-19. The present study examined the relationships between illness severity and emotional distress and the outcomes of a general and cognitive rehabilitation program.

Methods: Participants were 61 post-acute COVID-19 patients who participated in a multidisciplinary rehabilitation program. Data were collected at admission and discharge, 6 months later. Medical evaluations and self-reported emotional, neuropsychological and functional measures were used.

Results: Mild illness was associated with higher levels of self-reported anxiety and depression and with lower self-reported executive functioning. Elevated anxiety levels and lower cognitive profile at admission were significantly linked to poorer cognitive outcomes, but not to motor or general functioning level at discharge. 

Conclusions: The results of the study indicate the significance of monitoring emotional characteristics, particularly anxiety, in post-COVID-19 individuals during multidisciplinary rehabilitation.