A host of measures have been taken in society to slow the spread of the coronavirus. Our mobility is being restricted and our routines and social habits are changing – but how has this new reality impacted our wellbeing?

A new Sifo survey shows that one in four Swedes (26%) experience that they are feeling worse mentally as a result of the pandemic. Their physical health has also been impacted, where one in five (20%) say that their physical health has been negatively impacted. Young people between 16 and 29 stick out as the age group that has felt the biggest negative impact – both physically and mentally – according to the survey.

Neary half (44%) of Swedes also say that they have experienced greater concern over their health during the corona pandemic.

“It’s no surprise that a large share of the population feels worse and is suffering from anxiety during a pandemic,” says Annika Svedberg, Chief Pharmacist at Apotek Hjärtat. “There are many reasons for this, and it feels extra important to note that even during the continuing pandemic, help is available for those who are not feeling well.”

A third of Swedes have reduced their physical activity

A third of Swedes (33%) answered that they have reduced their physical activity during the pandemic, while less than a fourth (23%) have increased their physical activity.

“Exercise plays an important role in health, and there is a strong connection between physical activity and mental wellbeing,” Svedberg says. “It is easy for routines to be disrupted when things are no longer like they used to be, but it is important to try to develop new habits, even if it just entails taking a daily walk.”

Tips on where to turn for care

1177 Vårdguiden – Vårdguiden’s e-services are open 24 hours a day. This means that you can contact a healthcare professional at any time and book an appointment. You can also call 1177 if you need to consult with a nurse or want help on finding the right type of care.

Min Doktor – If you are worried about physically visiting a clinic, Min Doktor is a good alternative. There you can get help from doctors and psychologists directly via the app – for everything from urinary tract infections, to allergies, sore throat and mental distress.

Pharmacies – At your local pharmacy you can get assistance from our pharmacists with self-care advice or if you have questions about your medicines, any side-effects, and which medicines you can take at the same time.

The survey’s results in brief

• One in four Swedes (26%) experience that they feel worse mentally as a result of the pandemic; most are young women aged 16-29 (42%). Three per cent feel that their mental health has been positively impacted.
• One in five (20%) feel that their mental health has been negatively impacted during the corona pandemic, with young people between 16 and 29 experiencing this the most (26%). Nearly one in ten Swedes (9%) feel that their mental health has been positively affected.
• A third of Swedes (33%) say they have reduced their physical activity during the corona pandemic. Less than a fourth (23%) say they have increased their physical activity.
• Nearly half (44%) of Swedes responded that they have experienced increased anxiety over their health during the corona pandemic. The highest level was in the age group 65-79 (52%). Among men the level was slightly lower, where two in five (40%) said they are worrying more.

About the survey

The survey was conducted by the market research firm Sifo under assignment by Apotek Hjärtat. It is based on 2,503 interviews among the Swedish public nationwide. The data was collected from 8-15 September 2020.

For more information

ICA Gruppen press service
Telephone number: +46 (0)10 422 52 52
apotekhjartat.se. icagruppen.se