The effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on wellbeing up to 2.5 years from its outbreak in Switzerland.

This article examined to what extent pandemic-related exposures were associated with negative affect up to 2.5 years from the outbreak of the pandemic in Switzerland.

We drew on longitudinal data from five waves (2018-22) of the Swiss Household Panel, including the pandemic questionnaire collected in May-June 2020 (n = 5657). Our outcome, negative affect (e.g. frequency of negative emotions such as anxiety or sadness), was measured in 2020, 2021, and 2022.

Our study showed that a higher frequency of psychosomatic symptoms (e.g. sweating), greater worries (e.g. lifestyle), and concerns about perceived financial risk were strongly and persistently associated with higher negative affect up to 2.5 years after the outbreak of the pandemic. Worsened relationships with neighbours and a deteriorated financial situation were associated with higher negative affect during the pandemic, but not postpandemic. Finally, an increase in physical activity (but not an absolute frequency of exercising) was linked to lower negative affect in the short-term.

The findings emphasize the importance of mitigating pandemic-related worries and stress, as these can have long-lasting postcrisis consequences on people's wellbeing. Moreover, preventing a decline in the financial situation and relationships within the community as well as adopting a healthy lifestyle may have protective effects.