Analysis of losses in physiotherapy students during the COVID-19 pandemic: a phenomenological approach

Abstract

Background During the COVID-19 pandemic, young people have experienced numerous personal losses across various aspects, impacting their quality of life. This study aimed to explore and analyze the losses experienced by physiotherapy students during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods A qualitative phenomenological study was conducted using an open-format exercise carried out during the Clinical Specialties class from February to May 2021. Thirty-four (83% female) third-year physical therapy students participated. ATLAS.ti software was used for the analysis and coding by three researchers. Results Analysis of the categories revealed various losses experienced by the participants, including losses in psychological well-being, physical health, the social sphere (friendships, relationships with partners and family members, and experiences of death), spiritual losses (loss of freedom and identity), leisure time (travel, recreational activities and physical exercise), and different losses related to university studies (motivation and enthusiasm and clinical practices). Conclusion The COVID-19 pandemic has led to significant losses among physiotherapy students, with losses in the social sphere being the most prevalent. This study can serve as a foundation for developing resources aimed at enhancing the well-being of physiotherapy students, promoting optimal academic performance, improving self-care, and reducing psychosocial problems.