Lived experiences of covid-19 survivors: Insights from a manufacturing industry in Harare, Zimbabwe

Abstract

The Covid-19 pandemic has had devastating mental health effects mainly as a result of measures being used to contain it like self-quarantine, self-isolation, and social distancing. This study seeks to explore the lived experiences of Covid-19 survivors at a manufacturing company in Harare, Zimbabwe. The objectives of the study were to describe the psychosocial experiences of Covid-19 survivors, explore the coping mechanisms employed by the Survivors, and come up with a psychosocial support model for Covid-19 management. A qualitative research approach was used, utilizing a phenomenological research design. A total of 8 participants were selected utilizing purposive sampling. Data was collected using a semi-structured interview guide. The interviews were conducted face to face. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis. Major findings of the study were that participants had near-death experiences accompanied by grief experiences of shock and panic in the first three days post-diagnosis with Covid-19.

Keywords: Covid-19; lived experiences; manufacturing industry; psychosocial support; survivors.