Answers are grounded in this paper and cite their sources.
Survey reveals psychological distress linked to hunger and poverty during lockdown in South Africa, suggesting urgent need for support.
A recent survey by the University of Johannesburg and the HSRC found that a sizeable share of South African adults experienced a range of negative emotions during lockdown. The chief driver was hunger resulting from poverty. The depth of psychological distress and social isolation was highlighted by survey participants moving responses when asked to share the worst thing about lockdown.
No takes yet. Share an insight, caveat, or question.
Human Sciences Research Council (2026) studied this question.
Synapse has enriched 8 closely related papers on similar clinical questions. Consider them for comparative context: