Abstract
Objective: To discuss the increase in the incidence of depression and anxiety in the population during the COVID-19 pandemic period, based on an analysis of the scientific production on the subject. Bibliographic review: The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted people's health and daily lives. Policies to contain the transmission of the virus has changed our behaviors by promoting the constant use of masks, the need for social distance, and the reduction of contacts and interpersonal relationships. All of this affected mental health and increased the development of diseases such as anxiety and depression in the population. As a consequence, there has been an increase in the consumption of antidepressants and other substances such as alcohol, cigarettes, and other drugs. It also has emphasized the psychosocial impact on health professionals, especially those who work on the front line, fighting against the pandemic. Final considerations: It is of utmost importance that there is an engagement between the government, the health intuitions, and also the population to manage not only the direct impact of the pandemic on the health but also manage all the secondary factors that have contributed to increasing the mental health diseases on people.