Young Adults’ Well-being and Adaptive Measures: A COVID-19 Survey

Page: 111-115
Renu Gulati1, Veenu Wadhwa2, Reema Lamba3, and Priya Kaim4 (Department of Human Development and Childhood Studies, Institute of Home Economics, University of Delhi, Delhi1,2,4 and Aditi Mahavidyalaya, University of Delhi, Delhi3)

COVID-19 induced lockdowns across the globe have made people adjust and adapt themselves through changing patterns of lifestyle. This study aimed to study the impact of forced restrictions on young adults in terms of adaptive measures, well-being, and circadian rhythm during the lockdown. A short survey was conducted during the first lockdown in India among young adults (n=197) in different metropolitan cities of India to collect information on youth’s perspectives, practices and experiences during the lockdown through an online platform. The results are based on the responses of 197 young college-going adults to a variety of questions related to stressors during the lockdown, their support system, and their actions towards ensuring their well-being amid the lockdown period. Sense of well-being was perceived as moderate by the majority of the young adults who participated in the study. However, the collected data also indicates that the COVID-19 lockdown has undoubtedly influenced sleep patterns, food behaviour, daily routines, perspectives towards relationships, life situations, and quality of communication in the youth. Some positive impact was also reported based on individual practices for improving health and well-being as well as coping with stress and related emotions. A family-based intervention program is needed for the vulnerable groups to ensure holistic well-being and help them work towards their recovery in different domains as in pre-pandemic lives.