Coronavirus Sparks Heightened Stress in Dutch Families: Insights from Zilveren Kruis Study

The coronavirus pandemic has upended daily life worldwide, leaving many Dutch families grappling with increased stress. A study by DirectResearch, commissioned by health insurer Zilveren Kruis, found that over half of Dutch households with children at home report more tension, shorter fuses, gloomier outlooks, and less cheer since the outbreak.

The research surveyed 1,059 adults aged 18 and older living with children.

Read also: '#DASLIEF:what we do for each other during coronavirus'

What causes the greatest concerns?

Key worries include the uncertainty of how long the crisis will last (64% of respondents) and the fear of a family member falling ill (52%). Parents of primary school children face elevated stress, with 37% finding it challenging to assist with schoolwork and 43% struggling to balance it with their own jobs. These parents report stress at 48%, higher than the 38% average across all families with children.

What measures do parents take to reduce the pressure?

To foster a positive home environment, parents are turning to practical strategies. The top five include:

1. Applying structure and rhythm (41%)
2. Where possible, go outside with the children (34%)
3. Take extra care that children get healthy food and drink enough (22%)
4. Children try to give as much individual attention as possible (16%)
5. Let children sleep in (14%)

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