Lockdown study reveals Kiwi mindset

Kiwis are feeling stressed but resilient in the face of the Covid-19 pandemic, according to a University of Waikato survey.

More than 1000 people participated in the online poll of how people were thinking, feeling and coping during April.

‘‘Through this initial restrictive phase of New Zealand’s response to the Covid-19 pandemic, we would describe our participants as stressed but resilient,’’ senior lecturer Dr Carrie Barber said.

Most dramatically changed their lifestyle.

About 10 per cent were working outside their homes in April.

‘‘Almost all are taking the Government’s guidelines about health precautions seriously, and practising social distancing and hand washing.’’

Most respondents considered themselves healthy, and were not personally worried about being infected with Covid-19. They were concerned about the health of others and the financial impact of the pandemic.

Barber said the survey also showed the importance of the media for information.

‘‘Most people said they rely on New Zealand-based online news sources and Government websites for information, and many listed the daily news briefings as a positive source of coping and support.’’

About 60 per cent reported at least some financial impact of the crisis, and 14 per cent were seriously affected.

‘‘Many are worried, especially about infecting others or losing loved ones, and rightly so. Their travel and daily lives are [temporarily] dramatically impacted, with more than 30 per cent experiencing high levels of anxiety and/or depression.

‘‘In spite of this challenging situation, participants described using mostly positive, effective coping strategies.’’