Countries with the Highest and Lowest Mental Well-Being
Date
New research from Sapien Labs provides a data-driven perspective on mental well-being, with relevant insights for modern work and life.
About the Report & Methodology The Mental State of the World Report is based on anonymized responses from more than 500,000 participants across 71 countries. The study uses the Mental Health Quotient (MHQ)—a comprehensive assessment evaluating 47 elements of mental function across six core domains: mood and outlook, drive and motivation, social self, cognition, mind-body connection, and adaptability. Scores range from -100 (Distressed) to +100 (Thriving), offering a nuanced view of population mental well-being beyond clinical diagnoses.
Key Insights The Dominican Republic, Sri Lanka, and Tanzania recorded the highest MHQ scores. Economic strength alone did not predict well-being. The research highlights three central elements of mental resilience:
- Strong social and community relationships
- Sufficient sleep and whole-food diets
- Financial security and personal autonomy
Nations with developed community support systems often scored higher than wealthier countries with less social cohesion.
Relevance for Professionals For creative and knowledge workers—fields frequently linked to high stress and variable workloads—the report emphasizes the value of:
- Maintaining real-world social connections
- Prioritizing rest and recovery time
- Establishing workplaces with financial transparency and stability
The report suggests that well-being stems from health, stability, and human connection—not wealth alone.
Source Sapien Labs, Mental State of the World Report 2024 (released March 2025).
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