Spiritual Needs of Iranian Patients with COVID-19: A Qualitative Study

J Relig Health. 2024 Oct;63(5):3961-3973. doi: 10.1007/s10943-024-02001-y. Epub 2024 Feb 5.

Abstract

Facing crises, life problems, and illnesses, many people turn to religion, spirituality, and faith as a psychosocial adjustment approach. This qualitative study assessed the spiritual needs of fourteen Iranian patients who recovered from COVID-19. Qualitative content analysis resulted in three themes, including "composure" with three categories of "prayer", "hope", and "connection"; "meaning in the life" comprising two categories of "a new prospect of life" and "the power of nature"; and "global responsibility" involving one category of "the relationships between individuals, communities, and the world". This study highlighted that patients relied on spirituality to cope with COVID-19 disease.

Keywords: 2019 novel coronavirus; COVID-19; Content analysis; Qualitative study; Spiritual needs.

MeSH terms

  • Adaptation, Psychological*
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • COVID-19* / psychology
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Iran
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Qualitative Research*
  • SARS-CoV-2
  • Spirituality*