Overcoming Adversity: The Severe COVID-19 Illness Experience

This viral outbreak of the novel SARS-CoV-2 has profoundly disrupted lives globally and has placed unparalleled burdens on individual physical and psychological health. It is imperative to comprehend the psychological journey of COVID-19 patients to provide them with effective care. This study aimed to explore the psychological illness experience of severe COVID-19 survivors from the first symptoms, to hospitalization, recovery, and post-discharge adjustment. Semi-structured interviews were conducted from November 2022 to April 2023, with 30 Romanian former COVID-19 patients. Thematic analysis of transcribed interviews identified four major themes: (1) a distant threat; (2) the tipping point; (3) the turning point; and (4) readjustment and growth. Some participants faced denial or uncertainty early on, misattributing symptoms and delaying seeking care. Hospitalization as a last resort brought anxiety, isolation, and closer confrontations with mortality perception. As symptoms improved, and participants received supportive care from both healthcare professionals and family members, hope and optimism appeared. Despite health improvements and feelings of safety, lingering anxiety persisted. Post-discharge adjustment involved managing lasting effects and selectively resuming activities. For some of the participants, reflection afterward prompted greater self-understanding, empathy and connection, and motivation for self-care. The results have implications for healthcare practitioners, policymakers, and researchers.

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