Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) is a significant global health issue with high in-hospital mortality and long-term sequelae, including increased mortality and disability for months to years after hospitalization. The Post-Intensive Care Syndrome (PICCS) characterizes persistent impairments in physical, cognitive, and mental health, affecting quality of life. Persistent muscle weakness is a common physical problem, often due to prolonged bed rest and overuse of sedatives and neuromuscular blocking agents during mechanical ventilation. Corticosteroids, while effective in managing ARDS, can cause myopathy and muscle weakness, and prolonged delirium, increasing the risk of long-term cognitive impairment. Mental health challenges, such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder, are also prevalent in ARDS survivors. Effective strategies to address these complications include the consistent implementation of the evidence-based ABCDEF bundle, which includes daily management of analgesia, early cessation of sedatives, avoidance of benzodiazepines, daily delirium monitoring and management, early mobilization, and family involvement. Understanding the links between critical care management and long-term consequences is crucial for developing effective therapeutic strategies and improving the quality of life for ARDS survivors.Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) is a significant global health issue with high in-hospital mortality and long-term sequelae, including increased mortality and disability for months to years after hospitalization. The Post-Intensive Care Syndrome (PICCS) characterizes persistent impairments in physical, cognitive, and mental health, affecting quality of life. Persistent muscle weakness is a common physical problem, often due to prolonged bed rest and overuse of sedatives and neuromuscular blocking agents during mechanical ventilation. Corticosteroids, while effective in managing ARDS, can cause myopathy and muscle weakness, and prolonged delirium, increasing the risk of long-term cognitive impairment. Mental health challenges, such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder, are also prevalent in ARDS survivors. Effective strategies to address these complications include the consistent implementation of the evidence-based ABCDEF bundle, which includes daily management of analgesia, early cessation of sedatives, avoidance of benzodiazepines, daily delirium monitoring and management, early mobilization, and family involvement. Understanding the links between critical care management and long-term consequences is crucial for developing effective therapeutic strategies and improving the quality of life for ARDS survivors.