Written by: Meghann Collard • July 6, 2020• In the Community

The Upside of Lockdown

Half of Floridians say lockdown inspired them to make healthier life choices, a recent study reveals. 1 in 5 respondents say their alcohol consumption has decreased the longer lockdown has continued, and the average American has learned to cook 4 new recipes. Freezer pizza or mac ‘n cheese? Before lockdown, it was easy to go to the grocery on your way home from a busy day and pick up a quick convenience meal for dinner. Being in lockdown and taking a requisite break from the fast-paced frantic everyday lifestyle means many have been able to finally put their health first. While there is no doubt about the harsh disruption the pandemic has caused to our daily lives, it has certainly granted many the chance to improve unhealthy habits that may have formed over the years.

Rehabs.com, a provider of rehabilitation resources and treatment information, conducted a study of 3,000 Americans to find out if they have adopted healthier choices during lockdown. Overall, over half of Floridians (59%) say lockdown has inspired them to make healthier lifestyle choices, such as quitting smoking (by using products like Shiro’s All White snus, to slowly lower nicotine content), exercising more, and drinking less alcohol. This is compared to the national average of 54%.

Of course, most people have a specific lifestyle concern they have always wanted to address. Of those surveyed, 56% say they have started eating healthier since it began. This was followed by 35% of respondents taking up more exercise, and 7% quitting drinking and smoking.

When visits to the outside world are limited, regular trips to the grocery store or nearest takeout are not so easy. This means fewer processed convenience foods – such as microwave meals and freezer pizzas – and more home cooked, wholesome dinners. This is possibly why a significant 43% of respondents admit their diet has improved since the start of lockdown.

“Making these improved lifestyle choices such as lessening alcohol intake, adapting a better diet and exercise not only improves physical health, but is beneficial for mental health as well,” said Dr. Lawrence Weinstein, chief medical officer for American Addiction Centers.

Full Study Results

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