According to a recent mental well-being report, it reveals that currently the United Kingdom is one of the least content places globally, surpassed only by Uzbekistan. As the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and the strain of the cost-of-living crisis continue, Britain finds itself in the 70th position out of 71 countries for overall mental wellbeing, with a concerning average score of 49 compared to the global average of 65.
The study, conducted by the US-based Sapien Labs think tank, observed factors such as cognition, adaptability, drive, social self, mood, and mind-body connection. With replies from more than 500,000 people across 71 countries, the research attributes the lesser scores in wealthy nations to early-age smartphone use, consuming ultra-processed foods (UPFs), and a breakdown in interpersonal relationships leading to increased loneliness.
In the UK, 35% of respondents express distress or struggle with their mental well-being, mostly affecting young adults and economically challenged families. The report notes that since 2020 for the 18-24 age group there has been a reduction in mental well-being, showing a challenging period marked by economic recessions, a relentless cost-of-living crisis, and a turbulent property market.
Factors contributing to the UK’s mental well-being crisis include political instability, exacerbated by changing Prime Ministers and scandals like Party Gate. The study also shows the adverse impact of consuming ultra-processed foods, which constitute 60-70% of diets in the UK and the US. Those who often consume such foods report significantly poorer mental well-being, emphasizing the connection between diet and mental health.
While well-being for over-65s has remained quite steady, young individuals, mostly aged 18-24, show the least improvement since 2020. However, the report highlights the stark contrast between wealthier and less wealthy nations, with less wealthy nations in Africa and Latin America recording the highest for well-being.
The overall findings underscore the urgent need to comprehend the drivers of collective mental well-being in the post-pandemic era, as scientists advocate for a better understanding to align ambitions with the genuine prosperity of people. The survey used the Mental Health Quotient (MHQ) to assess cognitive and emotional capabilities, providing an overall mental well-being score. The report serves as a crucial call to address the complex aspects influencing mental health universally.
