Social Health & Wellbeing

 Overview

Akin to observed social outcomes of other social crises or disasters, the pandemic initially created feelings of community and opportunities to unite more strongly with close social circles of family and friends, as well as with extended groups such as one’s country. Still, repeated, lengthy lockdowns during the pandemic led to increased social isolation and distress for many people, and reports of growing prejudice, hostility toward outside groups, and sociopolitical polarization abounded in the first year of the pandemic. The pandemic offered opportunities to forge community connections while simultaneously elevating worries around physical and mental health. Considering these contrasting influences, this research found that social bonds play a critical role in guiding people’s health behaviors and psychological well-being. Ultimately, if society wants a chance at buffering people against the physical and emotional impacts of global crises, policy-makers and other influential stakeholders need to continually invest in social bonds..