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.