Practice of new normal lifestyles, economic and social disruption, and level of happiness among general public in China in the post-COVID-19 era

• Main Authors: Lin, Xu, Lin, Yulan, Hu, Zhijian, Alias, Haridah, Wong, Li Ping
• Format: Article
• Published: Dove Medical Press Ltd. PO Box 300-008, Albany, Auckland 0752, New ZealandAND 2021
• Subjects: R Medicine (General)
• Online Access: http://eprints.um.edu.my/28055/

Purpose: This study aimed to investigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the practice of `new normal' lifestyles, economic and social distribution, and individuals' wellbeing of people in China after the country ease the lockdown restriction. Methods: A cross-sectional, self-administered online survey was carried out between 3 September and 15 October 2020. Results: A total of 8393 complete responses were received from a nationwide sample. Poor sustainability in the practice of ``new norm'' was reported. Noteworthy disparities were observed in willingness to carry out ``new normal'' practices by gender, urban-rural locality, non-Han and Han Chinese and educational attainment. There was evidence of economic and social disruption associated with COVID-19 or ``new normal'' practices. The current mean (+/- standard deviation SD]) happiness score (110.45 +/- 17.55) was slightly lower than the mean happiness score before (111.12 +/- 17.83) the COVID-19 pandemic (t= -9.01, p<0.001). Lower socioeconomic status and greater economic and social disruptions were associated with lower current happiness scores. Moreover, greater willingness to adapt to ``new normal'' practices was associated with higher levels of happiness. Conclusion: There is a need to encourage sustainable practice of new norm post-pandemic. Segments of the public continue to experience significant economic and social effects and the post-pandemic `new norms' remain at risk of leading to psychological consequences.