Self-compassion and general well-being of COVID-19 patients: a moderated mediation model of perceived control and positive coping

Self-compassion could safeguard well-being under challenging circumstances. Nevertheless, limited literature explored self-compassion and the general well-being of COVID-19 patients in the Chinese context. Based on the perceived control theory and the protective model, this study analyzed the connection between self-compassion and the general well-being of infected patients during the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, it explored a moderated mediation model that involved perceived control and positive coping as underlying mechanisms in this association. A number of 312 COVID-19 patients (182 females; M age = 38.99, SD = 12.58) completed the General Well-Being Scale, Self-Compassion Scale, Psychological Security Questionnaire, and Coping Scale. Results indicated that self-compassion may contribute to improved general well-being. Additionally, perceived control played a partial mediating role in this relationship. Specifically, self-compassion exhibited a positive correlation with perceived control, which subsequently positively impacts well-being. Notably, this link between self-compassion and perceived control was solid among individuals with limited positive coping strategies. These findings emphasize the significance of self-compassion in enhancing the psychological health of COVID-19 patients in China, with perceived control playing a crucial role, especially for those with fewer coping resources.