Life history factors have a significant role in disease development and coping, but have been given little consideration in the response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Based on a thorough analysis of oral history interviews from the initial phase of the pandemic, an investigation of the effects of COVID-19 on individual areas of life is carried out and subjective coping patterns are considered The mental stresses experienced due to the pandemic situation relate primarily to the social environment, the job and society.In particular, the aspect of reconciling professional and private obligations makes it clear that the challenges perceived here affected women with small children and single parents in particular. The results illustrate the importance of gender and life situation for the individual experience of the pandemic.