Mental health of female sex workers in the COVID-19 pandemic: stressors and coping strategies

Abstract

The objective was to analyze the coping strategies adopted by female sex workers for stressors resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic. Descriptive, qualitative study, supported by the theories of Systems and Coping. An in-depth interview was conducted with 30 female sex workers, from Alto Sertão Produtivo Baiano, during the months of September and October 2020. The narratives were submitted to the resources of the hermeneutics-dialectic to organize the categories. Four categories refer to the stressors of the system: negative feelings of fear, anxiety and difficulties sleeping with the uncertainties facing the pandemic; concern with the support of family members; irritability in the face of conflicts; anguish and insecurity with working conditions. Five categories allude to coping: focus on the problem (pandemic); reframing and regulation of emotions; spirituality and religiosity; support and social support networks; substance and medication use. The stressors arise as a result of the experiences of the sexual service combined with the pandemic situation with the evasion of clients and income, developing negative feelings and emotions. However, coping strategies are diverse and an attempt to deal with problems and balance mental health.