Australians struggle with exercise, wellbeing during coronavirus lockdown: survey

Australians have struggled with their diet, wellbeing and exercise during the coronavirus lockdown, a survey has revealed.

The survey of nearly 4,000 Australians published by the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) on Tuesday revealed that 66 percent said their exercise has dropped off amid the pandemic.

Two in five respondents said they have gained weight, 41 percent said their emotional wellbeing has declined and 36 percent said their diet has worsened.

"Our analysis found that the COVID-19 outbreak has negatively impacted respondents' health and wellbeing," Emily Brindal, the author of the report, said in a media release.

"According to our research, there are clearly concerns around social connectedness, with 90 percent of respondents feeling that there has been a negative impact on their ability to socialise and celebrate special events.

"Increased concern about finances and the certainty of the future also featured strongly, as restrictions ease and respondents adjust to a new normal.

"The survey findings indicate a clear need for something to give Australians a mood boost as they emerge from lockdown and adapt to the new normal."

Overall 60 percent of respondents reported a negative shift in their satisfaction with life during the lockdown.

However, Brindal found that some personality types found the period more challenging than others.

"This number was noticeably higher for those who were identified as highly extroverted, with this group seeing significant impact from the lack of social interaction," she said.

"Those identified as highly emotional eaters also reported higher decreases in their average wellbeing levels than others."