Psychosocial Effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Adults With Chronic Illnesses

Abstract

The chapter aims to examine the adaptation to the coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic process of adults previously diagnosed with a chronic illness. Chronic illnesses negatively affect a person's psychosocial functioning as well as their physical health. When the COVID-19 pandemic entered people's lives, a higher risk was expected for individuals with chronic illnesses. Several studies were conducted to understand their COVID-19 adaptation process and psychosocial consequences. Studies revealed high levels of depressive and anxious symptoms as well as non-compliance, fear of COVID-19, isolation, and loneliness. From another viewpoint, individuals with chronic illnesses were also able to cope with COVID-19-related stressors and some of them experienced better well-being outcomes. Online and telehealth interventions were offered for people in need of psychosocial support. The pandemic experience helped people develop an understanding of the management of health threats and a multidimensional perspective toward health.