Exploring Psychosocial Stressors and Coping Strategies During the COVID-19 Lockdown: A Study of Two Low-Income Communities in South Africa

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has introduced significant challenges worldwide, leading to the reshaping of societal dynamics. These challenges are in the form of psychosocial consequences on community members’ everyday lives. This study aims to explore the psychological factors, particularly psychosocial stressors and coping strategies influencing the two low-income communities during COVID-19 lockdowns. A qualitative community case study design was used through four focus group discussions (n = 28) and 30 semistructured interviews with adults over 18. Qualitative thematic analysis using an inductive approach was employed, to analyse the data. The findings demonstrate that social isolation, confinement, harshly imposed government restrictions and perceived neglect or lack of support from the government led to feelings of entrapment, loss of freedom, frustration and anger among individuals. These emotions, combined with food insecurity, uncertainty and fear of infection or death for oneself or loved ones, contributed to intense psychological stress and heightened levels of anxiety. This environment of uncertainty and fear significantly exacerbated worry and distress. The findings further show that participants displayed both resilience and struggle during these times, using a blend of healthy and unhealthy coping strategies. This sense of resilience was expressed through the communities being more connected in this time of need and people supporting each other where they can. The findings highlighted the importance of religion, spirituality and faith in these stressful times, functioning as a protective coping mechanism against severe psychological stressors. Unhealthy coping mechanisms included substance misuse, violence, social withdrawal and communal divisions, which ultimately deepened social and psychological challenges within communities. Addressing psychosocial stressors and coping strategies is important to prevent long-lasting consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic. Simultaneously, these insights can inform future strategies to navigate through future potential pandemics.