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The Experience of Self-Compassion in Individuals Suffering from Long COVID
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- Author / Creator
- Krebs, Brandon K
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Long COVID is a chronic health condition that persists following recovery from COVID-19 infection and is linked to a staggering range of mental health difficulties. Self-compassion has been found to protect against psychological distress in those with other chronic health conditions. However, research on self-compassion for people with Long COVID is scarce. Furthermore, little is known about the experience of self-compassion from the perspective of those suffering from this challenging health condition. This study aimed to develop an in-depth understanding of the lived experiences and perspectives of self-compassion in adults with Long COVID. An interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) approach was implemented to explore, describe, and interpret participants' lived experiences. Data were collected by conducting one-on-one semi-structured interviews with six participants, ranging between the ages of 22 and 60. Data analysis was based on Smith et al.’s (2022) seven-step approach for IPA studies. Five group experiential themes were produced based on participants' experiences of self-compassion during their time with Long COVID: accepting Long COVID, turning down the dial, directing attention to the positive, compassion from others, and validation of the Long COVID experience. These findings provide a nuanced understanding of how self-compassion may play a role in the coping and recovery processes of those with Long COVID. Clinical implications, limitations, and avenues for future research are also discussed.
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- Graduation date
- Fall 2024
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- Type of Item
- Thesis
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- Degree
- Master of Education
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- License
- This thesis is made available by the University of Alberta Library with permission of the copyright owner solely for non-commercial purposes. This thesis, or any portion thereof, may not otherwise be copied or reproduced without the written consent of the copyright owner, except to the extent permitted by Canadian copyright law.