How well do you know your neighbours?
If you’ve got some good ones, then you may have actually been more protected from some of the adverse health impacts of the pandemic.
A study conducted by the Australian National University found good neighbourhood relationships and social connections helped to protect against loneliness, depression and anxiety during the initial waves of COVID-19 in 2020.
Lead author Dr James O’Donnell said people generally are much less likely to report symptoms of depression, anxiety and loneliness if they have positive perceptions of their neighbourhood social environments.
“Neighbourhood cohesiveness is a really important social glue; it keeps us connected and supports our wellbeing in everyday life and during a crisis.”
“Everybody needs good neighbours – It is good for your health.”
Unless, of course, your neighbours are anything like Ramsay Street’s Izzy Hoyland – then you’re in big trouble.
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