RESUMEN
Aims: People with psychotic and bipolar disorders were particularly vulnerable to poor mental health and wellbeing in the early phases of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, their subjective experience of what they were most worried about concerning the pandemic, what contributed most to how they were doing, and what they suggest the mental health services could do to improve care during a pandemic, requires investigation. Method(s): Three months after the outbreak of COVID-19, 520 people with psychotic and bipolar disorders responded to an online survey about the pandemic impact on mental health and wellbeing, including three open-ended questions. The material was analysed using thematic analysis. Result(s): The participants' main worries were: fear of the virus itself;fear of protective measures;fear of a completely changed world;fear of social consequences;and fear of poor mental health. These worries involved others as much as themselves. Participants' experience of main positive contributors were: a slower pace of life;more time to reflect;maintaining daily routine;keeping up social contact;and mental health service availability. The most prominent suggestions to improved mental health services were: stay open;be proactive;and individualize treatment. Conclusion(s): In the early stages of the pandemic people with psychotic and bipolar disorders were equally worried about the pandemic consequences for others and the world at large, not just for themselves. Positive contributors to wellbeing included increased calm and time to respite. They suggested that mental health services remain available and flexible during future pandemics.