Those living with family fared better than those living with friends or alone during COVID, study finds

ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WHEC) — A new study co-authored by a University of Rochester researcher found those living with family fared better during COVID-19.

The study published in the journal Clinical Psychological Science focused on mental health and found that despite stressors like cramped quarters and school closures, it was still better than living alone.

Researchers sampled 1,200 people in February 2020 and in September 2020.

People living with children or their romantic partner experienced better mental health and recovered more quickly from a spike in anxiety and depression.

It also found that those living with roommates, friends, or extended family struggled with the same mental health difficulties as those living alone.