The Psychological and Spiritual Dimensions of Covid-19 Patients: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

The Covid-19 pandemic has been on the rise all over the globe during the last two years and numerous cases are being reported positive on the Covid-19 diagnostic test daily. Patients dealing with this disease experience special emotions and psychological conditions. The aim of this study is to understand and describe the lived experience of these patients and their psychological and spiritual dimensions. This study was carried out through a qualitative method following a descriptive phenomenological approach. Data gathering was performed via 14 semi-structured interviews with COVID-19 patients from different cities in Iran. The selection of the sample was started with purposive sampling in 2020, and continued with the selection of more samples through the snowball sampling method till data saturation was achieved. Data analyses were performed by a qualitative method based on the Colizzi approach, leading to the extraction of 8 major classes and 24 themes. The classes of negative reactions to the diseases included fear and anxiety, hopelessness, anger and hatred, depersonalization and de-realization, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. The post-disease classes of attitudinal and spiritual evolutions included increased spirituality, modified interpersonal relationships, and evolved self-concept. have achieved unique spiritual experiences and growth dimensions in their life upon dealing with the pandemic. This study can greatly help psychologists, medics, and medical managers to identify therapeutic approaches to treat anxiety and improve peace in the Covid-19 patients