New research from Bangor University has found an unexpected correlation between strict adherence to Covid lockdown rules and worsened mental health outcomes. The study, conducted by academics at the university, discovered that individuals who closely followed pandemic-related restrictions were more likely to suffer from stress, anxiety, and depression.
The researchers identified two distinct personality types: “communal” individuals, characterized as caring, sensitive, and aware of others’ needs, tended to strictly adhere to lockdown protocols. In contrast, “agentic” personalities, described as independent, competitive, and desiring control, were less likely to exhibit such behaviors.
Dr. Marley Willegers and colleagues concluded that the more individuals complied with health advice during lockdown, the worse their mental wellbeing post-lockdown. The study, based on 1,729 participants in Wales during the first UK-wide lockdown (March to September 2020), assessed stress, anxiety, and depression levels in February to May of the following year.
Interestingly, the fear of catching Covid had both positive and negative consequences. While increasing worry about infection drove compliance, it also had negative effects on people’s wellbeing and recovery.
The study revealed that “communal” types experienced the highest levels of ongoing disturbance to their mental wellbeing, while “agentic” individuals were better able to “bounce back” from lockdown mode.
Willegers, an academic at Bangor University’s Institute for the Psychology of Elite Performance, emphasized the importance of transitioning out of lockdown. He noted that some individuals struggled with the shift from receiving regular public health advice to no guidance as lockdown ended.
The Centre for Mental Health thinktank expressed deep concern about the enduringly poor mental health experienced by those who adhered to pandemic restrictions. Andy Bell, the thinktank’s chief executive, highlighted the fear, loss, and trauma created by the pandemic, suggesting that these factors, combined with the loss of social solidarity, could contribute to ongoing mental health challenges.
Experts suggest that the widespread damage Covid inflicted on mental health is a key factor behind the increased demand for NHS psychological and psychiatric services. Mark Winstanley, CEO of the charity Rethink Mental Illness, emphasized the enduring impact on mental health, emphasizing that concerns about loved ones and health risks linger despite the desire to move on from the pandemic.
As the study sheds light on the unexpected consequences of lockdown compliance, Willegers recommends that future government health advertising campaigns consider different personality types in the population. He suggests campaigns should highlight both the personal costs and benefits involved, beyond individuals’ responsibility to others.