Global Mental Wellbeing Report Paints Picture Of Enduring Struggles
Keywords: global mental wellbeing, post pandemic, generational impact
Author: Lisa Munro
Updated: 14 March 2024, Worklife Digital
The fourth annual Mental State of the World report*, a comprehensive survey conducted by the Global Mind Project, has unveiled concerning findings regarding the persistent decline in global mental wellbeing. Despite hopes for a recovery post-pandemic, the data collected from over 500,000 respondents across 71 countries paints a stark picture of enduring struggles.
In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, which precipitated a significant downturn in mental health worldwide, there was an expectation that as restrictions eased and the threat diminished, mental wellbeing would gradually improve. However, the latest report suggests otherwise. The decline observed between 2019 and 2020 has not abated, indicating that the effects of diminished mental wellbeing have become entrenched as a new normal.
Aligned with the World Health Organisation's definition, the Global Mind Project evaluates mental wellbeing as the ability to navigate life's stresses and contribute productively to society. It offers a holistic perspective encompassing emotional, social, and cognitive capabilities rather than solely focusing on happiness or life satisfaction.
Regional Disparity
Interestingly, the report highlights that greater wealth and economic development do not guarantee better mental wellbeing. African and Latin American countries, often less economically developed, consistently rank higher in mental wellbeing compared to wealthier nations like the United Kingdom and Australia.
Generational Impact
One striking trend identified by the report is the disproportionate impact on younger generations. Those under 35 experienced the sharpest declines in mental wellbeing during the pandemic, exacerbating pre-existing trends of poorer mental health. Surprisingly, older age groups, particularly those over 65, displayed more stability in their mental wellbeing.
Explanatory Factors
Insights from the Global Mind Project and other SapienLabs Rapid Reports research shed light on several factors contributing to these trends. Smartphone ownership emerges as a significant influence, especially among the younger demographic. The age at which individuals acquire their first smartphone correlates with adverse mental health outcomes in adulthood, particularly affecting the dimension of Social Self and manifesting in symptoms such as suicidal thoughts and aggression.
Additionally, the consumption of ultra-processed foods emerges as a detrimental factor affecting mental wellbeing across all age groups. Increased consumption correlates with higher instances of depression and challenges in emotional and cognitive control.
Another concerning finding is the fraying of family bonds, particularly among younger individuals. A notable percentage of 18-24 year olds report strained relationships with their families, with implications for their mental health. Close family relationships serve as a protective factor against mental health challenges, highlighting the importance of strong familial ties.
These findings underscore the complex interplay between individual behaviors, societal factors, and mental wellbeing. Addressing the persistent decline in mental health requires multifaceted approaches, ranging from individual lifestyle changes to broader societal interventions.
Efforts to promote mental wellbeing must encompass strategies to mitigate the negative impact of smartphone use, encourage healthier dietary habits, and strengthen familial and social connections, particularly among younger generations. Furthermore, addressing disparities in mental health outcomes across different regions and socioeconomic groups is essential for fostering a more equitable global landscape of mental wellbeing.
WorkLife Digital is a global mental-wellbeing consultancy driven by the mission to improve the sustainability of businesses. Our psychological wellbeing tool, Worklife Quotient (WL-Q), is modelled on cutting-edge scientific research and provides organisation-wide measurement and intelligence on the mental wellbeing levels and psychological resilience of staff. WL-Q also assesses the impact of organisational practices (i.e. people and culture, leadership styles, organisational purpose and values, social impact) that have a direct influence on staff wellbeing and provides strategic recommendations on addressing risks and promoting strengths.
For more information, get in touch at lisa@worklife.digital
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