The UK has been ranked as one of the least mentally well countries in the world, according to a new mental wellbeing report. Only Uzbekistan ranked worse, with the UK coming in 70th out of 71 countries for overall mental wellbeing.
This low ranking is particularly alarming, given that the UK has an average score of 49 compared to the global average of 65. The report, conducted by researchers at the US-based Sapien Labs think tank, found that mental wellbeing in 2023 had still not recovered to pre-pandemic levels.
The study focused on various aspects of mental wellbeing, including mood and outlook, social self, drive and motivation, adaptability and resilience, cognition, and mind-body connection.
Miserable Place (Credits: InYourArea)
The low scores for richer countries like the UK were attributed to factors such as early-age smartphone use, consumption of ultra-processed foods, and the breakdown of friendships and family ties, leading to increased loneliness.
These findings shed light on the ongoing mental health challenges faced by individuals in the UK and other developed nations, even as the world continues to grapple with the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic and other societal issues.
The Covid-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on mental health worldwide, with many people experiencing increased stress, anxiety, and depression due to factors such as social isolation, economic uncertainty, and health concerns.
In the UK, the pandemic has exacerbated existing mental health challenges, with many people struggling to cope with the effects of lockdowns, job losses, and other disruptions to daily life.
In addition to the pandemic, the report also highlighted other factors contributing to poor mental wellbeing in the UK. For example, the widespread use of smartphones from a young age has been linked to increased feelings of loneliness and social isolation, as well as reduced attention spans and poor sleep quality.
Similarly, the consumption of ultra-processed foods has been linked to a range of physical health problems, including obesity, diabetes, and heart disease, which can also impact mental wellbeing.
The breakdown of friendships and family ties was also cited as a significant factor contributing to poor mental health in the UK. The report noted that many people in the UK report feeling isolated and disconnected from others, which can have a negative impact on mental wellbeing.
This is particularly concerning given the important role that social connections play in supporting mental health and wellbeing.
The report’s findings suggest that there is a need for greater focus on mental health and wellbeing in the UK, both in terms of addressing the underlying causes of poor mental health and providing support and resources for those who are struggling.
By addressing these issues, it is hoped that the UK can improve its ranking in future mental wellbeing reports and ensure that all its citizens have the opportunity to lead healthy and fulfilling lives.
