You can't do anything about it, but you can make the best of it: a qualitative analysis of pandemic-related experiences in six European countries

Data de publicação:

Autores da FMUP

  • Margarida Maria Carvalho De Figueiredo Ferreira Braga

    Autor

Participantes de fora da FMUP

  • Zrnic Novakovic, I
  • Lueger-Schuster, B
  • Verginer, L
  • Bakic, H
  • Ajdukovic, D
  • Borges, C
  • Javakhishvili, J
  • Tsiskarishvili, L
  • Dragan, M
  • Nagórka, N
  • Anastassiou-Hadjicharalambous, X
  • Lioupi, C
  • Lotzin, A

Unidades de investigação

Abstract

Background: The complex system of stressors related to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has affected the global population, provoking a broad range of psychological reactions. Although numerous studies have investigated the mental health impact of COVID-19, qualitative research and cross-country comparisons are still rare. Objective: This qualitative study aimed to explore self-perceived challenges and opportunities related to COVID-19 across six European countries. The overall objective was to provide a differentiated picture of individual subjective experiences in the early stages of the pandemic. Method: The present study included 7309 participants from Austria, Croatia, Georgia, Greece, Poland, and Portugal. We performed qualitative content analysis according to Mayring analyse open-ended questions regarding stressful events, positive and negative aspects of the pandemic, and recommendations to cope with the pandemic situation. MAXQDA software was used for data management and analysis. Results: Participants' accounts were moderately consistent across the countries. The most prominent themes regarding stressful and negative pandemic aspects included: Restrictions and changes in daily life, Emotional distress, and Work and finances. Answers about positive pandemic consequences were mainly centred around the themes Reflection and growth, Opportunity for meaningful/enjoyable activities, and Benefits on interpersonal level. Key themes identified from participants' recommendations to cope with the pandemic included Beneficial behavioural adjustment, Beneficial cognitive-emotional strategies, and Social support. Conclusions: Participants experienced various challenges, but also shared several positive pandemic consequences and recommendations to cope with the pandemic. These first-hand data could inform mental health practices to promote well-being during COVID-19 and similar global challenges in the participating countries and possibly beyond.

Dados da publicação

ISSN/ISSNe:
2000-8198, 2000-8066

European Journal of Psychotraumatology  TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTD

Tipo:
Article
Páginas:
-
Link para outro recurso:
www.scopus.com

Citações Recebidas na Web of Science: 9

Citações Recebidas na Scopus: 12

Documentos

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Keywords

  • COVID-19; pandemic; coronavirus; mental health; coping; positive aspects; cross-country study; qualitative content analysis

Financiamento

Proyectos asociados

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