The Psychological Experiences of Patients Isolating at Home during Covid Treatment in Turkey

Abstract

The global COVID-19 pandemic affected patients’ mental health and well-being, however subjective psychological experiences of the patients treated at home were not adequately addressed. The aim of this study was to evaluate the psychological experiences of COVID-19 patients who received home treatments, in Turkey. The experiences of COVID-19 patients (n = 26) were examined within the stages of pre-disease, disease, and post-disease by following a phenomenological approach. Data were collected through semi-structured in-depth interviews conducted via telephone and the internet and analyzed according to the Miles and Huberman model. Low-risk perception and worry fluctuations dominate in the pre-disease stage among those who were affected by the disease. Patients experienced challenging psychological experiences such as isolation, anxiety, concerns for beloved ones, and stigmatization during the treatment. As a result of these strains, their symptomatic, instrumental, and psychological needs became evident. When the disease was overcome, many patients achieved post-disease strength along with some psychological changes in their lives. Psychological experiences according to the stages of the disease can be an important indicator for mental health interventions in public health and medical social services to be provided in possible future pandemics and for the establishment of social adjustement of patients. Future research is required that can guide social services that examine the in the short and long term mental health of COVID-19 patients in depth.