“From Recovery to Resilience: Exploring the Lived Experiences of COVID-19 Survivors in Malaybalay Cityâ€

This study aims to explore the lived experiences of COVID-19 survivors, with a particular focus on their psychological, emotional, and social adjustments. Employing a qualitative approach, semi-structured interviews were conducted with survivors in Malaybalay City, which employs Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) to delve into the multifaceted experiences of COVID-19 survivors, revealing the physiological, psychological, and emotional impacts of the pandemic. The findings highlight how survivors’ pre-existing beliefs about immunity and health were challenged, particularly among those who presumed immunity due to asymptomatic status or healthy lifestyles. While the negative implications of COVID-19 are evident, the study also points to the potential for personal growth, recovery from depressive states, and transformation. The emotional challenges faced by survivors—such as fears, anxieties, and the psychological effects of isolation, quarantine, grief, and medical care—underscore the critical need for comprehensive mental health support during crises. Behavioral practices like prayer, mindfulness, and exercise are identified as effective in reducing stress and psychological distress. Additionally, the study emphasizes the necessary role of family and social networks in strengthening self-worth, providing emotional and practical support, enhancing resilience, and aiding recovery. However, the enduring psychological challenges, particularly anxiety, remain significant. Overall, this research enriches the understanding of COVID-19 survivor experiences in a resource-limited region, highlighting the need for integrated mental health services within the healthcare system. It provides crucial insights into the limited qualitative research on COVID-19 survivors, underscoring the importance of holistic mental health care in the post-pandemic era.