Silver linings of the COVID-19 lockdown in New Zealand

• DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0249678
• Publication Date: 2021-04-01T18:32:15Z
• Authors: Matthew Jenkins; Janet Hoek; Gabrielle Jenkin; Philip Gendall; James Stanley; Ben Beaglehole; Caroline Bell; Charlene Rapsey; Susanna Every-Palmer
• Keywords: Thriving; Pandemic; Thematic Analysis; 2019-20 coronavirus outbreak; Posttraumatic growth

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused significant disruption, distress, and loss of life around the world. While negative health, economic, social consequences are being extensively studied, there been less research on resilience post-traumatic growth that people show in face adversity. We investigated New Zealanders’ experiences benefit-finding during analysed qualitative responses to a survey examining mental well-being Zealand lockdown. A total 1175 2010 eligible participants responded an open-ended question probing ‘silver linings’ (i.e., positive aspects) they may have experienced this period. these using thematic analysis approach. Two thirds identified silver linings from lockdown we developed two overarching themes: Surviving (coping well, meeting basic needs, maintaining health) thriving (self-development, reflection, growth). Assessing as well provides more nuanced insights into impact Zealand’s response had well-being.