Providing Emotional Support and Physical Comfort During a Time of Social Distancing: A Thematic Analysis of Doulas' Experiences During the Coronavirus Pandemic

Abstract

Doulas are trained, non-clinical professionals that provide a continuum of support for mothers. An interpretive phenomenological approach was used to explore the professional experiences of doulas ( n = 17) during the COVID-19 pandemic in the US. Data were collected using brief intake surveys, in-depth semi-structured interviews, and an online discussion group. After a list of significant statements was created and grouped during emergent themes analysis, the reflections were summarized into three themes, (1) Doula Resilience, (2) Experiencing Vulnerability, and (3) Concern for Client Vulnerability that encapsulate the experiences of doulas during the COVID-19 pandemic. We conclude that as part of the COVID-19 recovery process, policy makers should look to non-clinical interventions for improving maternal health, such as promoting and supporting synergy between doulas and other maternal health service providers.

Social media communication and public engagement in different health crisis stages: The framing of COVID-19 in Chinese official media

“…In the meantime, the public needs emotional support to allay anxiety and regain faith. Emotional support, as a key component of health communication strategies during public health crises (Jewett et al, 2023; Zahry et al, 2023), involves offering words of reassurance, acknowledging the emotional struggles that people are facing, and providing a sense of togetherness and solidarity. In the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, where public emotions are heightened, and the psychological impact is profound, it is imperative for governmental organizations to be responsive to the emotional needs of the public (Zhu & Hu, 2023).…”