Thesis A thesis of clinical research and practice [psychology and Long Covid], 2023, Petker

Source: University of Surrey Date: September 29, 2023 URL: https://openresearch.surrey.ac.uk/e...hesis-of-clinical-research-and/99794064802346

https://openresearch.surrey.ac.uk/v..._INST&filePid=13187759600002346&download=true

A thesis of clinical research and practice: Part A: [Psychological Associations with Long Covid]; Part B: [Long Covid: Finding Resolution in a Dichotomised World]; Part C: Summary of clinical practice and assessments
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Saara Petker - School of Psychology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, U.K.

Abstract

A significant proportion of the population that have previously contracted the Covid-19 virus have gone on to develop long lasting symptoms known as Long Covid. Despite its prevalence, Long Covid remains a poorly understood medical condition. Existing research has portrayed the role of psychological processes in similar medically unexplained illnesses such as chronic fatigue and pain. Therefore, this thesis aimed to explore the psychological component of Long Covid, specifically understanding the role of psychology in the onset and experience of Long Covid.

Part one of this portfolio presents an empirical paper investigating psychological risk factors for Long Covid using quantitative measures. The study was initially designed to gather cross-sectional and longitudinal data; however, due to ethical issues only the cross-sectional component was completed. The study received criticism from potential participants regarding its psychological outlook on Long Covid. This ultimately led to the discontinuation of the study, resulting in a significantly smaller sample size than planned (n=95) and no longitudinal component. The findings showed no significant associations between psychological factors and Long Covid. The null findings were likely impacted by the cross-sectional methodology and small sample size.

Part two of this portfolio presents a second empirical paper which qualitatively investigates the role of psychological processes in the lived experience of Long Covid. Due to the response to the first study, this paper additionally explores patients’ own beliefs about psychology’s role in their condition. The findings reveal themes of fear relating to the uncertainty of Long Covid, feeling disbelieved, and searching for a cause. They additionally suggest that while Long Covid patients reject claims that psychology plays a causal role in their illness, many recognise that the course of illness is impacted by psychological processes.