Researchers are studying the best way to boost personal well-being around the world

Madrid, April 20. (Europe Press) –

Researchers from the South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI) and Flinders University conducted the world’s largest meta-analysis of well-being studies to answer the question of how best to enhance personal well-being.

The analysis included more than 400 clinical trials with more than 50,000 participants. Researchers divided people into three main groups: those who were generally healthy, those with physical ailments, and those with mental illness.

They have discovered that it is possible to increase the well-being of all individuals, but Joep van Agteren, Co-Director of the SAHMRI Center for Wellbeing and Resilience, says there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Van Agteren explains: “During periods of stress and uncertainty in our lives, working proactively on our mental health is critical to help mitigate the risks of developing mental and physical illnesses.” Our research indicates that there are many psychological approaches that people must experiment with to determine what works for them.

Practicing mindfulness, using techniques such as meditation and mindful breathing, was effective in increasing well-being in the three groups.

Positive psychological interventions, such as working on a sense of purpose, taking small acts of kindness, and keeping a journal of gratitude, were effective, but only when they were conducted together, but not individually.

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) was beneficial for many mentally ill patients, while acceptance and commitment therapy (TAC) was more beneficial for those in overall good health.

Co-author Matthew Yasilo of SAHMRI says that all interventions share the need for a consistent, long-term practice to be effective in improving well-being.

“Trying something once or twice is not enough to produce a measurable effect. Regardless of which method is tested, it must last for weeks and months for it to have a real effect,” says Yasilo.

Professor Michael Kyrios of Flinders University’s Orama Institute for Mental Health and Wellbeing says the study shows that in addition to seeking professional help when feeling upset, there are many practical steps people can take to improve their health and wellness. Health problems.

“These interventions can be safely implemented for individuals alone or in groups, either in person or online,” says Professor Kyrios. Hence, it is a cost effective add-on. Referral pathways and current treatment methods. “

Researchers believe these findings highlight the need for a change in tactics in the way society deals with people’s well-being, whether or not they suffer from mental illness.

Professor Kyrios cautions: “We must take everyone’s well-being seriously and make sure that we take the necessary steps to improve mental and physical health so that we can prevent future complications and keep health care costs low.”

The researchers, who are part of the new collaborative laboratory between SAHMRI and Flinders, the Be Well Innovation Lab, will continue meta-analysis year after year to expand the tests and ensure they are kept up to date.

The data was used to form the basis of “Plan Be Well,” a health program delivered in person and through an app, recently tested on more than a thousand Australians, and accessible online.