Psychological wellbeing and living conditions during the COVID-19 pandemic in Brussels

Abstract

This study investigated how socio-environmental factors influenced psychological wellbeing among Brussels residents during the first COVID-19 lockdown. A cross-sectional survey of 315 participants assessed age, socioeconomic status, housing conditions, access to public and private green space, physical activity, and psychological outcomes (happiness, anxiety, depression). Regression analyses showed that age and physical activity were consistent predictors of wellbeing: younger participants reported greater anxiety and lower levels of happiness, while higher physical activity was associated with reduced distress and greater happiness. Access to a private garden predicted slightly lower levels of anxiety and depression but was not linked to greater happiness. Housing space and municipal-level availability of public green space were not significant predictors of wellbeing when controlling for other factors. Participants nonetheless reported assigning greater importance to both private and public green spaces after lockdown. Findings highlight the protective role of physical activity and suggest that equitable access to outdoor spaces is essential for urban wellbeing.