New Mental Wellbeing Report Reveals The UK Is The Second Most Miserable Country In The World

In a recent mental wellbeing report conducted by the US-based Sapien Labs think tank, startling revelations have emerged regarding the state of mental health across the globe. The findings paint a concerning picture, with the UK highlighted as one of the most miserable nation second only to Uzbekistan.

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The aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic, coupled with the cost of living crisis, has taken a toll on the mental wellness of individuals worldwide. However, the extent of the UK's struggles has raised alarms. Ranking a dismal 70th out of 71 countries surveyed, the UK achieved an average score of 49, in stark contrast to the global average of 65.

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While factors such as early-age smartphone usage and consumption of ultra-processed foods contribute to the lower scores observed in more affluent nations, the prevalence of loneliness emerges as a significant  issue. The lack of social connections, both familial and friendly, has left many in the UK grappling with feelings of isolation and distress.

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The report underlines the disproportionate impact on different age groups, with young adults experiencing the most significant decline in mental wellbeing since 2020. Distress levels among individuals aged 18-24 have surged, reflecting a concerning trend that demands attention.

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Interestingly, less affluent regions in Africa and Latin America have fared comparatively better in terms of mental wellbeing, with countries like the Dominican Republic, Sri Lanka, and Tanzania ranking highest in the survey. This disparity highlights the complex interplay between socio-economic factors and mental health outcomes.

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Notably, Yemen, despite facing humanitarian crises of unprecedented magnitude, surpassed the UK, Ireland, and Australia in mental wellbeing scores. This unexpected finding underscores the need for a nuanced understanding of mental health factos beyond traditional metrics of wealth and development.

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The findings of the Sapien Labs report serve as a  reminder of the urgent need for collective action to prioritise mental wellbeing on a global scale.

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