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Association between Loneliness, Well-Being, and Life Satisfaction before and during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Cross-Sectional Study

Author

Listed:
  • Mateja Lorber

    (Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Maribor, Zitna ulica 15, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia)

  • Jožica Černe Kolarič

    (Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Maribor, Zitna ulica 15, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia)

  • Sergej Kmetec

    (Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Maribor, Zitna ulica 15, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia)

  • Barbara Kegl

    (Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Maribor, Zitna ulica 15, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia)

Abstract

Good psychological well-being contributes to a satisfying life, reduces loneliness, and enables a better quality of life. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, people worldwide have faced various challenges, which manifest in mental health problems, dissatisfaction with life and increased loneliness. This study aimed to investigate the influence of loneliness on mental well-being and life satisfaction among the adult population during the COVID-19 pandemic. A cross-sectional study was conducted between October 2021 and January 2022. A total of 664 participants took part in the survey, of whom 484 (73%) were female and 180 (27%) were male. Our results show that loneliness can explain 48% of the total variability in mental well-being and 52% of the variability in life satisfaction. The results show a higher level of loneliness and use of information and communication technology and a lower level of contact with relatives and friends, life satisfaction, and well-being during COVID-19 than they considered before the time of COVID-19. Study findings can help improve loneliness and mental well-being, and, consequently, life satisfaction.

Suggested Citation

  • Mateja Lorber & Jožica Černe Kolarič & Sergej Kmetec & Barbara Kegl, 2023. "Association between Loneliness, Well-Being, and Life Satisfaction before and during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Cross-Sectional Study," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 15(3), pages 1-12, February.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:15:y:2023:i:3:p:2825-:d:1057348
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    References listed on IDEAS

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