“If you know from the start ‘how long’, then you can always adjust to it better”: a qualitative study of adults’ experiences and coping with two years COVID-19 pandemic in Germany

This study aimed to identify positive and negative experiences of adults in Germany, coping strategies, contexts and wellbeing trajectories across two years of the COVID-19 pandemic. Semi-structured interviews (n = 14 adults) were conducted during spring 2022 and thematically analysed. Experiences and wellbeing trajectories corresponded to different phases of the pandemic, individuals’ contexts, and coping strategies. Many of the negative and positive experiences were perceived long-term changes, including deteriorated health behaviours, physical and mental health, social withdrawal for some, and improved health behaviours, personal growth, improved working life for others. Experiences, coping and consequently wellbeing were strongly affected by individuals’ contexts. Cognitive adaptation to a long duration of the pandemic and sufficient support appeared key to effective coping. We recommend more structural support for those most affected, preparing the public for long-term disruptions of their lives and addressing social inequalities of the COVID-19 pandemic.