2020 COVID-19-related lockdown: the relationships between coping strategies, psychological adjustment and resilience among a non-clinical sample of British adults

Background and objectives To curb COVID-19 infections, the British government enforced a series of lockdowns resulting in restrictions on movement and socialisation. This study assessed which groups may have been at higher risk of emotional distress among a non-clinical sample of British adults. It also examined which coping strategies, if any, related to more positive psychological adjustment and higher resilience scores. Methods A cross-sectional, correlational study was carried out. Using a convenience sample, an online survey was conducted in April-June 2020. 194 participants completed the Brief COPE (coping), the GAD-7 (anxiety), the PHQ-9 (depression), the CD-RISC (resilience) and provided demographic information. Results Participants used mainly coping strategies considered to be adaptive. They exhibited mild/moderate anxiety and depression symptoms, and moderate resilience scores. However, some individuals displayed significantly higher distress symptoms and lower resilience scores than others, especially those aged under 35 (particularly 18-24), those not working, those who were single and/or childless. Results also show that coping strategies including substance use, behavioural disengagement and self-blame were associated with anxiety and/or depression symptoms. Conversely, positive reframing related to lower anxiety symptomatology. Conclusions Interventions promoting positive reframing may be helpful. Similarly, interventions promoting connection to others, a factor known to enhance resilience, may be beneficial. This is particularly relevant to groups who may be more at risk of psychological distress, such as young individuals