Disconnect between mental health and perceived wellbeing, shows report

Image: Getty Images/ For illustrative purposes

Gulf Insurance Group (GIG), a leading insurance provider in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), has released its inaugural Wellbeing Report, offering a comprehensive overview of health and wellbeing trends across the region.

The survey, conducted by YouGov on behalf of GIG, surveyed 3,599 individuals across eight MENA countries: the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, Oman, Egypt, and Jordan.

The report, which focuses on physical and mental health, reveals a striking disconnect between how individuals perceive their wellbeing and the underlying mental health challenges many face.

Key highlights of the wellbeing report

The report revealed the following:

Mental wellbeing insights
– 82 per cent of respondents reported positive overall wellbeing.
– 84 per cent rated their mental wellbeing as good.
– 65 per cent of respondents acknowledged facing mental health challenges in the past year.
– 62 per cent of those reporting mental health challenges self-diagnosed their conditions, highlighting a need for better mental health awareness and support.
– Up to 35 per cent of respondents in some countries were unsure of where to seek professional help, indicating a significant gap in mental health support resources.

Physical health and lifestyle habits
– 74 per cent of respondents assessed their physical health positively.
– Common physical ailments reported included allergies (15 per cent) and musculoskeletal disorders (14 per cent).
– Only 54 per cent of respondents got the recommended seven hours of sleep per night.
– More than 50 per cent of respondents did not engage in regular exercise.

The findings suggest a need for a more holistic approach to wellbeing that encompasses both mental and physical health and lifestyle choices.

Workplace wellbeing in focus

Workplace wellbeing was also a key topic in the survey. Many respondents indicated a desire for more employer-driven initiatives to support their health, such as regular health checks, stress management programs, and wellness workshops.

Additionally, there was strong interest in digital wellbeing tools, including mental health and fitness apps, reflecting an opportunity for companies to leverage technology in promoting employee wellbeing.

Laura Gerstein Alvarez, chief employee benefits officer at GIG Gulf, commented on the findings: “The high rates of self-diagnosis and uncertainty around mental health support are concerning, but they also open the door for important dialogue within the industry. This report encourages us all to ask: How can we ensure that our members have access to the mental health resources they need?”

The report highlights the need for the industry to take immediate action to close care gaps and provide comprehensive wellbeing initiatives. As the survey reveals, there is an urgent need for more robust mental health support systems, as well as a more holistic approach to health that incorporates physical, mental, and lifestyle aspects.

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