Simple Behaviours Linked to Better Mental Health

Strategic Insights -

Research conducted by Curtin University in Western Australia highlights the positive impact of everyday activities on mental well-being. The study surveyed over 600 Western Australian adults, revealing that regular interactions with friends, time spent in nature, and mentally engaging activities are strong indicators of improved mental health. According to the findings, people who chat with others daily score 10 points higher on a standard mental well-being scale than those who do so less than once a week.

Key Takeaways:

  • Regular daily conversations with friends are associated with a 10-point increase on a standard mental well-being scale.
  • Spending time in nature every day is linked to a five-point increase in mental well-being.
  • Frequent catch-ups with friends, physical activity, practicing spirituality, and helping others are all associated with improved mental well-being.
  • The Act Belong Commit campaign's promoted behaviours were evaluated, and mental well-being increased consistently with the frequency of participation in these behaviours.
  • Awareness of the campaign was high, with 86 per cent of participants recognising it, while nearly all agreed that mental health should be prioritised alongside physical health.
  • Despite being conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic, 93 per cent of respondents reported no psychological distress, and average mental well-being scores were comparable to international pre-pandemic norms.

Statistics:

  • Over 600 Western Australian adults participated in the study.
  • Daily conversations with friends were associated with a 10-point increase on a standard mental well-being scale.
  • Spending time in nature every day was linked to a five-point increase in mental well-being.
  • 86 per cent of participants recognised the Act Belong Commit campaign.
  • 93 per cent of respondents reported no psychological distress.
  • Average mental well-being scores were comparable to international pre-pandemic norms.

Sources:

  • Curtin University news release
  • Act Belong Commit campaign information