Anxiety and Stress Experiences of Individuals with Chronic Diseases in the COVID-19 Pandemic: Qualitative Research

INTRODUCTION: Coronavirus disease 2019, caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, is a global pandemic resulting in the deaths of more than 3 million people across the world. It has been reported to be more fatal in individuals with chronic diseases than in healthy adults without a diagnosis of hypertension, diabetes, cardiovascular disorders, or respiratory system diseases.Aim: To determine the experiences and attitudes of individuals with comorbidities in relation to the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic.
METHODS: This qualitative-phenomenological study was conducted with individuals with chronic diseases among the family members of students attending the Healthcare Services Department of Eldivan Vocational School of Health. The sample of the study consisted of 17 individuals with chronic diseases. Data were collected through online interviews conducted between June and July 2020. The obtained data were analyzed using content analysis, and themes were created.
RESULTS: The mean age of the participants was 67.17 years; 47% were men, and 53% were women. From the data obtained through the interviews, 2 main themes emerged in relation to the pandemic experiences of the participants: negative emotions and positive responses. The theme of negative emotions related to the pandemic was further divided into the following sub-themes: fear of death, fear of being in social environments, lack of information about the pandemic, and external pressures. The theme of positive responses had 2 sub-themes: trust in government and spirituality, and individual measures.
DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: Individuals with chronic diseases have experienced many positive and negative emotions during the pandemic period. It is recommended to establish emergency information and advice lines for these individuals, provide them with training on health communication and health literacy, and raise their awareness of similar pandemics through practices such as public service announcements.