Since the first confirmed cases of COVID-19, the disease has had a significant impact on every aspect worldwide. As we all know, the unprecedented coronavirus disrupted life; measures such as quarantine, lockdown, and even social distancing were introduced. Although these measures might have decreased the spread of the virus, these initiatives have also negatively affected employment, the economy, and public health.

The circumstances have changed the society including routines, lifestyle, work habits, familial and social interaction among others. While these might be blessings in disguise for some, the pandemic’s consequences can be a challenging period for others. The same situations served as triggers for stress, anxiety, depression, loneliness, and other mental health concerns to the surface.

With attention to future uncertainty, worry has been growing about the mental health sequel of the COVID-19 crisis. Real Research surveyed to understand COVID Blues’ awareness of how it may have exacerbated mental and physical health conditions. Also, key demographics and the economy impacted during this time.

Highlights

  • Almost 75% of the respondents are aware of COVID blues.
  • 74% have experienced COVID blues.
  • Nearly 35% think social isolation due to restrictions from going out and gathering is the cause of COVID blues.
  • 37% said the most effective way to deal with COVID blues is to develop a new hobby that you can do at home.

With the data gathered from 10,000 males and females from 68 countries, 60% are single, and 41% are married. There were 83% male and only 17% female.

When it comes to age, the group comprising those aged 29 to 39 is dominant in this survey. The age group of 19 to 29 follows it, then the group of those aged 39 to 49 and 49 to 60 are the least participants within this survey.

As a result, we can say that males are dealing more with COVID blues. Besides, the respondents from 29 to 39 years old might be handling job losses, anxiety, stress, or physical health during this time of crisis. This shows that the pandemic has affected more married couples or families.

Real Research Survey Insights

The COVID Blues Experience

When asked, “Have you heard the term COVID blues (Corona blues)?” the majority are aware. Almost 75% (7,282) of the respondents have heard about the term COVID blues. Meanwhile, only 27%(2,718) haven’t heard about the name. Among these people who responded, 83% are male, and 17% are female.

To define, COVID blues or Corona blues is a psychological state of depression brought about by the coronavirus. As COVID-19 forced minor to major changes in the lives of people, COVID blues exist in various levels from mile to extreme cases.

Real Research Survey Insights

COVID blues refers to feelings of depression or anxiety caused by the heavy social atmosphere after the COVID-19 outbreak. When asked whether they have experienced COVID blues, nearly 75% out of 100 people who took the survey admitted to experiencing the COVID blues emotional state.

On the other hand, 27% said that they hadn’t experienced any Corona blues. As a result, many people had felt depressed or anxious due to the heavy social atmosphere after the COVID-19 outbreak.

Looking at the demographics, about 60% of the respondents are single, and 41% are married. This data shows that more single people are more affected by pandemic than married respondents.

Real Research Survey Insights

COVID Blues: Cause and Solution

To the question: In your opinion, what would be the leading cause of getting COVID blues? Around 34% replied that it is social isolation due to restrictions from going out and gathering that is the cause of getting COVID blues. Meanwhile, 33% of others said that health concerns due to the spread of COVID-19.

Real Research Survey Insights

Furthermore, 19% of people who took the survey replied that difficulty finding and maintaining jobs is the cause of COVID blues. 8% said a decrease in physical ability due to lack of physical activity, and 6% replied that other things are the leading cause of COVID blues.

In a poll that asked the respondent’s opinion on what can be the most effective way to deal with COVID blues, almost 40% said that developing a new hobby you can do at home is the most effective way to deal with Corona blues. However, 27% replied that communication through various media is the one.

Real Research Survey Insights

Moreover, 17% said to deal with COVID blues, you need to do light exercise or walk. But 9% said that consulting with experts is the best way. Another 6% replied that communication with family, friends, or acquaintances is the most effective way. However, only 5% believe there are other ways.

As a concluding statement, we can refer to the old saying: no man is an island. As social beings, people still need social interaction to maintain a healthy mindset and well-being. Aside from communication through media channels, people would find more fulfillment in engaging in a new hobby and investing time to improve themselves. Productivity is the best solution to combat the COVID blues.

Methodology

Survey TitleCOVID Blues Awareness Survey
DurationDecember 26-31, 2020
Number of Participants10,000
DemographicsMale and female, aged 19 to 60+
Participating Countries (68)Afghanistan, Algeria, American Samoa, Argentina, Armenia, Australia, AzerbaijanBangladesh, Belarus, Bolivia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Brazil, Canada, China, Egypt, Ethiopia, France, Ghana, Greece, Honduras, Hungary, India, Indonesia, Iraq, Israel, Italy, Jordan, Kenya, Kyrgyzstan, Lithuania, Malaysia, Mongolia, Morocco, Myanmar, Nepal, Nigeria, North Korea, Oman, Pakistan, Palestine, Panama, Peru, Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, Romania, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Thailand, Togo, Tunisia, Turkey, Turkmenistan, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, United States, Uzbekistan, Venezuela, Vietnam, and Zimbabwe.