AUTHOR=Park Hyein , Lee Nabin , Lee Jung Hyun , Lee Dayoung , Kim Kyoung Ae , Kim Hyun-Seung , Oh Eunhye , Ha Ji Hyun , Hyun So Yoen , Lee Juyeon , Kim Jiae , Jeon Kyoungsun , Kim Hyeong Taek , Sim Minyoung TITLE=Stress Experience of COVID-19 Patients as Reported by Psychological Supporters in South Korea: A Qualitative Study JOURNAL=Frontiers in Psychiatry VOLUME=13 YEAR=2022 URL=https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/psychiatry/articles/10.3389/fpsyt.2022.834965 DOI=10.3389/fpsyt.2022.834965 ISSN=1664-0640 ABSTRACT=Background:

COVID-19 patients experience various stressors during the quarantine period and after release from quarantine. However, stressors experienced during each period remain unclear.

Methods

A total of 15 mental health experts from the integrated psychological support group for COVID-19participated in this study. Psychological support was provided for the total 932 confirmed COVID-19 patients and their families. Qualitative data were collected using Focus Group Interview (FGI). The participants were divided into two groups and semi-structured questions were used to allow participants to speak their minds.

Results

During the quarantine period, difficulties of being diagnosed with COVID-19, concerns about recovery from COVID-19, stress related to quarantine, issues related to the treatment environment, and limited information about COVID-19 and communication were frequently reported. After release from quarantine, the reported main stressors include reinfection or reactivation, concerns about complications, and financial difficulties. Confusion as vectors and victims, stigma and discrimination, and conflicts within a family were observed during both periods.

Conclusions

COVID-19 patients suffered various stressors during the quarantine period and after release from quarantine. Moreover, returning to their daily life required timely psychosocial support, intervention, and treatment for COVID-19 infection.