8 in 10 Americans Say Positive Memories Have Been a ‘Lifeline’ During the Pandemic

In a new survey, 78% of Americans said that looking back and remembering the most cherished events in their lives has helped them comfort them during this stressful time of lockdown.

73% said they are remembering much more often these days, according to the survey of 2,000 American adults.

Respondents report that they tell an average of eight more personal stories each week than before the pandemic. 84% have also been sharing more photos with each other during this period.

Carried out by OnePoll on behalf of Aura frames, the survey also examined the impact of remembering on the general well-being of respondents during pandemic and election season.

To assess the relationship between reflection and well-being, the survey asked respondents to rate how a series of questions related to their levels of satisfaction with life and prospects for the future.

Those who remembered often were more likely to strongly agree that they were hopeful about what the future holds after the pandemic (34%), compared to those who rarely (20%) or never (14%) looked back in past events.

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Additionally, respondents who recalled the past more often were also more likely to fully agree that they were satisfied with their life (27%), compared to those who never (18%) or rarely (18%) did. make.

“Looking back over the past brings back the joy of good times and the comforting security of reuniting with loved ones. Happy memories remind us of when life was less complicated, ”said licensed psychologist and professor Dr. Krystine Batcho, PhD, who studies the psychology of nostalgia.

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“During difficult times like the ones we live in 2020, positive memories strengthen our confidence that life will be good again one day and that we will be able to overcome current challenges and those that come our way. In good times, memories help us see how much we’ve accomplished and inspire us to pursue even greater goals. “

Photos of family reunions topped the list of memories respondents were most likely to turn to during the pandemic (28%), with photos of weddings and other celebrations such as anniversaries or birthdays very close.

Almost six in 10 respondents (59%) said that their best memories with friends and family were those of past vacations.

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Yet despite the emphasis on memories that the pandemic appears to have sparked, nearly three in 10 respondents appear to be taking time apart from a way to share digital memory.

Perhaps to get a respite from the depressing news that is shared on social media, 28% of respondents reported having withdrawn from their online communities in the past 6 to 12 months or deleted their accounts entirely.

Stepping away from the screen and into the great outdoors, engaging in a hobby, or spending time with family to create new memories can offer a refreshing boost to one’s well-being.

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