ANU research shows good neighbours helped curb mental health effects of lockdown

Research from the Australian National University showed strong levels of neighbourhood relations helped to offset poor mental health effects of lockdown.

The study examined survey results that spanned across the second coronavirus-induced lockdown in Melbourne in 2020.

It found lockdown, overall, increased depressive symptoms by 23 per cent and feelings of loneliness by 4 per cent, but these symptoms subsided when people felt close to their neighbours.

The research found for those who had stronger-than-average relationships with their neighbours depressive symptoms only increased by 9.7 per cent.

"The results add to evidence of the harsh impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and associated lockdowns on mental health. Importantly, neighbourhood social relations and social cohesion more broadly may be an important source of social support in response to lockdowns," the research paper, published in Social Science & Medicine, said.

There were three parts to the national longitudinal survey which was conducted between May and November 2020. More than 3000 people took part in the survey.

Lead author of the survey James O'Donnell, from ANU's Research School of Psychology, said the research showed close-knit neighbours that trust one another and get along well provided an important source of social and psychological support.

"Neighbourhood cohesiveness is a really important social glue; it keeps us connected and supports our wellbeing in everyday life and during a crisis," Dr O'Donnell said.

"Everybody needs good neighbours. It is good for your health."

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Co-author Kate Reynolds, also from the Research School of Psychology, said neighbours took on a prominent social support role.

She said the findings provided insights into how governments and communities could better respond to the pandemic and mental health challenges of the future.

"Investing in the social infrastructure of local communities and the social cohesion of the country can protect the social, physical and psychological wellbeing of people both in daily life and through the crises we face," Professor Reynolds said.

"Addressing social cohesion now could provide an important mental health buffer during COVID-19 and beyond."

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