Local spirits drop in lockdown

Wednesday 15 April 2020

Life satisfaction in Guernsey has significantly decreased since lockdown restrictions were introduced, according to a recent survey by Island Global Research.

More than 1,800 Crown Dependency residents - 736 of whom were from Guernsey - completed the questionnaire, which focused on mental health and wellbeing during the corona virus pandemic.

While 72% of respondents said they felt they were 'thriving' at the beginning of the year, just 25% of people said they still feel that way. That number has dropped even compared to the week before, when 30% rated their life satisfaction as eight or higher out of ten.

Around one in five respondents were 'suffering', rating their life as four or lower out of ten. Comments revealed that many people have experienced feelings of anxiety or depression during the lockdown period, including those with and without a history of mental health problems.

Pictured: Some respondents have had feelings of anxiety or depression.

It appears the older generations have a slightly more positive outlook on the current situation, with 34% of those over 70 saying they were 'thriving', compared to just 15% of people under the age of 30.

"There have been some very moving comments made about mental wellbeing in response to the survey and we'd like to thank those who felt able to share them," said Assistant Manager at IGR, Lily Guille.

The survey also highlighted the level of concern respondents have for the island, as well as themselves and their family members.

Perceived threat on individuals seems to rise with age. Around a quarter of those under 30 believe covid-19 poses a high or very high risk to them, while about half of people over 70 feel the same way.

Pictured: Some key workers are concerned for their welfare.

Concern was also raised by some key workers, who were worried that they, and other more vulnerable members of their household, might be exposed to the virus.

However, some comments suggested the stricter measures on social distancing and extra precautions around cleanliness have helped to put respondents' minds at ease.

65% of respondents said they had helped people outside of their household in the last week, because of corona virus.

IGR is running similar surveys each week in Guernsey, as well as Jersey and the Isle of Man.

Anyone is welcome to take part by following this link.