Conclusion

The findings of the present study reveal that fear, rejection, and loneliness are serious issues affecting the lives of those afflicted with COVID-19 in Iran. Familial, social, and occupational discrimination, embarrassment, social isolation, and disruption of social support systems and relationships affect the mental health of COVID-19 patients. These factors may negatively affect recovery from the disease, making it more difficult for health officials to curb the pandemic. We recommend that attention is directed toward the psychological needs of stigmatized patients and their families. Furthermore, efforts should be made to minimize stigmatization and its associated pressures through different cultural and educational programs. Finally, to appreciate the5. long-term mental health consequences of this devastating pandemic, prospective and/or retrospective multicenter studies with larger sample sizes should be conducted.