Self-isolation stories have been trending in conversations across social media platforms in Australia over the last few weeks.
Analysis by media monitoring group Isentia shows a shift in conversations around COVID-19 as the pandemic increasingly impacts lives on a personal level.
While conversations around government response and economic impact are relatively steady with spikes driven by sporadic announcements or traditional media coverage, there is sustained growth in personal stories about self-isolation, working from home and personal fears and anxiety.
Isentia insights specialist ANZ Andrew Ledovskikh says Australians are using social media to share anecdotes and personal stories about how the pandemic is affecting their everyday lives and routines.
“They are turning to each other for ideas and advice on how they can overcome this crisis individually,” Ledovskikh says.
“As more people are practicing social distancing and self-isolation, there has also been a spike in social media use as they’re looking for ways to remain connected and maintain a somewhat normal life in the midst of this pandemic.”
Conversations around beer, wine and spirits have also surged significantly following the lockdown of non-essential services.
The lockdown announcement by prime minister Scott Morrison last week left many concerned about what it meant for liquor stores around the country and whether they need to stock up as stricter, nationwide lockdown laws loom.
Ledovskikh says while conversations around toilet paper and food have begun to level out, alcohol continues to see a steep spike.
“Following the lockdown, there has been a steep spike in conversations around liquor, as topics such as toilet paper and food have levelled off,” Ledovskikh says.
The government has since clarified that these are essential services, but the day after the announcement the conversation about booze remains well above the March average, even as conversations about food have continued to normalise.
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