Study Examines the Impact of COVID-19 Lockdown on New Zealanders

Introduction to the New Norms

The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly transformed daily life for individuals worldwide. New practices such as grocery pick-up, remote work, mask-wearing, virtual schooling, and social distancing have become commonplace. While these measures aim to safeguard public health, they have also led to several unintended consequences.

Mental Wellbeing Challenges

Many New Zealanders have experienced strained mental wellbeing due to reduced social interactions and heightened anxiety about contracting the virus. Financial difficulties stemming from job losses have compounded these issues, affecting individuals differently based on the severity of lockdown measures.

Strict Lockdown Measures in New Zealand

New Zealand implemented one of the strictest COVID-19 lockdowns, necessitating the closure of schools, businesses, and travel bans. Although effective in reducing virus transmission, researchers at the University of Otago sought to investigate the lockdown’s impact on citizens’ mental health. Their findings were published in the journal Plos One.

Research Methodology

A total of 2,416 participants completed a questionnaire during days 19 to 22 of the Level 4 lockdown. The survey covered various aspects of their living situations, including household size, type of residence, access to personal and green spaces, internet availability, and family connections outside the home. Additionally, participants provided information regarding family violence, alcohol consumption, demographics, and any perceived “silver linings” during the lockdown.

Data Analysis and Psychological Measures

Researchers evaluated the gathered data against the Kessler Psychological Distress scale, a widely used measure of psychological distress. Responses were also compared using the Generalized Anxiety Disorder Assessment and the World Health Organization Well-Being Index 5 (WHO-5).

Key Findings

Approximately 66% of participants reported coping well during the lockdown, while the remaining individuals faced moderate to high levels of psychological distress. Notably, younger adults (under 44) experienced greater distress, with nearly half of participants aged 18-24 reporting moderate to severe levels of anxiety.

Suicidal Thoughts and Family Violence

The study found that just over six percent of participants had contemplated suicide, and ten percent experienced increased family harm during the lockdown. However, not all findings were negative, as many participants identified “silver linings,” such as increased quality time with loved ones and reduced environmental harm.

Conclusion from the Study

Dr. Susanna Every-Palmer, the lead author of the study, emphasized in a press release the lasting consequences of the pandemic. She stated, “It is clear that the consequences of the pandemic will be pervasive and prolonged. Our findings emphasize the need to put resources into supporting mental well-being both during and after lockdowns.”

References

Every-Palmer S, Jenkins M, Gendall P, et al. Psychological distress, anxiety, family violence, suicidality, and wellbeing in New Zealand during the COVID-19 lockdown: A cross-sectional study. Plos One. 2020;15(11). doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0241658
Worksafe.qld.gov.au. https://www.worksafe.qld.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0010/22240/kessler-psychological-distress-scale-k101.pdf. Published 2020. Accessed November 9, 2020.
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