JBS Vol 23. Num 1. 2021. Article 4 - “I have to live for myself” Exploring Isolation Experiences

COVID-19 patients risk their psychological well-being during the period of their morbidity. In Bangladesh, few studies have investigated the psychological state of COVID-19 patients during their isolation period. This study intends to understand the isolation experiences of former COVID-19 patients in Bangladesh. In-depth interviews were conducted among former COVID-19 patients residing in rural and urban areas in Bangladesh. The respondents felt fearful, distraught, and traumatized during their early stages of isolation. Their emotional distress was concerned with not only themselves, but also with their family members. They upheld an optimistic attitude in hope of surviving against COVID-19. Their attitude led them to adopt different coping strategies that included communicating with others, entertaining themselves, praying, and becoming busy with daily chores. Their approaches, aggregated with support from their family members and acquaintances, nurtured their psychological well-being during the isolation period. Therefore, alongside providing familial and social support, the patients should be introduced to various coping mechanisms to avert psychological problems during COVID-19.