Strict Covid Lockdown Adherence Leads to Worsening Mental Health Outcomes, Bangor University Study Finds

 A recent study conducted by academics at Bangor University has found that individuals who strictly adhered to Covid lockdown rules are now experiencing the worst mental health outcomes. The researchers identified a correlation between stringent compliance with lockdown measures and increased levels of stress, anxiety, and depression. Specifically, those with "communal" personalities, characterized by their caring and sensitive nature, were found to adhere most rigorously to the protocols recommended by Boris Johnson and senior medics.

On the other hand, individuals with "agentic" personalities, who are known for their independence, competitiveness, and desire for control, were less likely to exhibit these behaviors. The study, which analyzed the compliance of 1,729 individuals in Wales during the first UK-wide lockdown from March to September 2020, also measured their levels of stress, anxiety, and depression from February to May of the following year. The findings suggest that the more individuals complied with health advice during lockdown, the worse their wellbeing was post-lockdown. This indicates that while the fear of infection can effectively drive compliance, it also has negative consequences on people's mental health and recovery.

Of particular concern is the enduringly poor mental health experienced by individuals who adhered to the rules. The Centre for Mental Health thinktank has described this finding as "deeply disturbing." The fear, loss, and trauma caused by the pandemic have had a lasting impact on many people's mental health, exacerbated by the loss of social solidarity when witnessing others not complying with the same restrictions. This has led to a significant increase in demand for NHS psychological and psychiatric services in recent years.

According to experts, the widespread damage caused by Covid to mental health in Britain is the primary reason for this surge in demand. The early days of the pandemic were characterized by disruption, uncertainty, and a lack of control, all of which can contribute to anxiety and low mood. It is crucial to recognize that individuals who took significant steps to protect themselves and others are now experiencing enduring effects on their mental health. Moving forward, future government health advertising campaigns should consider the different personality types within the population.

Dr. Marley Willegers emphasizes the need to highlight the personal costs and benefits involved, not just the responsibility to others. This will help individuals better understand the effects of their actions on their mental wellbeing and recovery. In conclusion, the study conducted by Bangor University academics sheds light on the mental health outcomes of individuals who strictly followed Covid lockdown rules. While those with communal personalities displayed the highest levels of ongoing disturbances to their mental wellbeing, those with agentic personalities showed better resilience. It is essential to address the lasting impact of the pandemic on mental health and tailor future campaigns to consider different personality types.