People miss the social whirl of bars and restaurants after the coronavirus shutdown — but have spent more time on phone and video chats with friends and family, a survey has revealed.About two thirds of people polled — 66 per cent — admitted they missed going out for drinks or dinner over the first six weeks of a lockdown imposed to battle the Covid-19 pandemic.Trips abroad were the second most missed activity, on 57 per cent, followed by church attendance, 29 per cent, grocery shopping, 28 per cent, and visits to the gym, 27 per cent.However, the restrictions led to more telephone and video contact with friends and family and 69 per cent of people said they contacted friends and family more than they usually did.The figure climbed to 76 per cent for people aged 65 or older.The poll also found:• 45 per cent of people called friends or family who they would normally text• 61 per cent spend more time talking to their family• 31 per cent checked in on elderly or sick neighbours• 31 per cent donated money, supplies or time to help those in need• 9 per cent potentially exposed themselves to the virus to help other people.Top activities in lockdown were use of social media — 75 per cent — and video contact with friends, 69 per cent.The survey, by Global Research and carried out between May 4 and 7, also showed 76 per cent of people spent more time in the kitchen over the lockdown, 40 per cent were eating a healthier diet and 40 per cent were taking more exercise.However, 18 per cent admitted they were drinking more alcohol, 23 per cent allowed their children to watch more TV, 49 per cent spent more time on home improvements and 47 per cent watched more TV.The survey results suggested improvement in physical health, but a decline in mental health:• 22 per cent of people reported their physical health improved, and 12 per cent said it declined• 15 per cent said their mental health had improved, and 23 per cent said it declined• 12 per cent said their emotional wellbeing had improved, and 27 per cent said it declinedThe survey was carried out by phone and online and had a margin of error of +/-5 per cent at the 95 per cent confidence level.• To view the poll results in full, click on the PDF link under “Related Media