Lived Experiences of COVID-۱۹ Patients During Home Quarantine and Social Distancing in Iran

Background: One of the most important ways to control the COVID-۱۹ pandemic was to impose mandatory restrictions to prevent virus transmission. The abrupt changes in lifestyle due to quarantine and social distancing measures presented significant psychological and emotional challenges. This study explored the lived experiences of patients with COVID-۱۹ during home quarantine and social distancing plans to delve deeply into personal experiences and research the various dimensions of this phenomenon.Methods: This phenomenological study was conducted using a purposive sampling method and in-depth and semi-structured interviews with ۱۳ patients under quarantine. The interviews continued until data saturation was obtained, and the transcribed text was analyzed using the Colaizzi method.Results: According to data analysis of patients’ experiences from hundreds of meaning units, six sub-themes were achieved under two main themes: “Immersion in the turbulent ocean” (emotional instability and contradictions, psychological turmoil, physical challenges, and social isolation) and “ Reaching the peaceful beach “ (social resilience and spiritual relief).Conclusion: Emotional fluctuations were predominant in patients, but over time, with the help of their own spiritual approaches and coping mechanisms, a positive compromise was reached. This showed that understanding the psychological and emotional needs of patients and developing and implementing tailored counseling and support programs can be an important step in providing individuals with optimal services.

کلیدواژه ها:

Quarantine ، Social distancing ، COVID-۱۹ ، Lived Experiences