MENTAL HEALTH AND COPING CONTINGENCIES AMONG ADULTS RESIDING IN THE UNITED KINGDOM DURING THE COVID-19 LOCKDOWNS

Abstract
Restrictions on movement and basic human rights can inevitably cause a negative impact on the mental health of individuals worldwide. This could become particularly apparent in the UK where the government placed firm restrictions on the movement and freedom of the public in response to COVID-19. This study aimed to determine associations between mental health and strategies adopted by residents to cope with lockdowns during the COVID-19 pandemic. Self-reported data were collected from 647 adults through an online survey. Results revealed that over 20% of participants reported symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. Multivariable logistic regression analysis confirmed that participants reporting use of positive coping strategies (for example spending time meditating and with pet companions) had significantly lower odds of experiencing symptoms of PTSD; whereas thosewho spent time social distancing by communicating with others online and exercising at home showed increased odds of experiencing PTSD symptoms. This study signifies COVID-19 as a major source of mental distress for adults residing in the UK and advocates various methods of coping during such stress-inducing times
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Citation
Lusher, J., Folayan, M. O., Mohamed, M. R. A., Zuñiga, R. A. A., El Tantawi, M., Nzimande, N. P., ... & Yousaf, M. A. MENTAL HEALTH AND COPING CONTINGENCIES AMONG ADULTS RESIDING IN THE UNITED KINGDOM DURING THE COVID-19 LOCKDOWNS.