According to the World Health Organization, one in four people will experience a mental health issue at some point in their lives. Thankfully, there has been a growing recognition of the importance of mental health and its impact on overall well-being.
Capstone-Intel Corporation, a high-impact research company based in the Philippines, recently conducted an extensive nationwide survey. Among the objectives of the study is to examine the various strategies employed by respondents to sustain or enhance their mental well-being.
The survey was conducted from September 20 to 27, 2023, with a sample size of 1,210 respondents.
According to the data gathered, a substantial majority of respondents (80%) indicated that they participate in exercise or physical activities, while 72% reported engaging in social interactions with friends and family. Moreover, more than half of the respondents (65%) expressed a preference for focusing on music, arts, and entertainment, while 61% stated that they practice mindfulness, meditation, or spirituality. Nearly half of the respondents (46%) mentioned engaging in travel, while 44% prioritized the care of their plants and pets.
The significance of this data is explained by Capstone-Intel.
“It is interesting to observe how people recognize the significance of mental health and actively work towards maintaining it through different approaches. The data suggests that these strategies are a collective response from society, indicating the need for readily available resources and sufficient time devoted to mental health care. Therefore, it becomes imperative for both the government and private sectors to prioritize this aspect and initiate effective measures to support individuals in their journey towards mental well-being,” said Capstone-Intel.
“One area where this support can be initiated is within schools, particularly through Physical Education (P.E.) classes. By incorporating mental health education and exercises into the curriculum, students can develop a better understanding of the importance of mental well-being from an early age. Expanding these initiatives beyond schools, regular mental health check-ins should also be encouraged within companies, among employees, and within the wider community. By nurturing a culture of mental well-being and providing the necessary resources, we can collectively work towards a healthier and more resilient society,” it added.
Based on the data, it is evident that a significant portion of male respondents actively participate in exercise or physical activities (83%), engage in social interactions with friends and family (71%), dedicate time to music, arts, and entertainment (62%), and prioritize mindfulness, meditation, or spirituality (56%). These identical strategies are also embraced by a majority of female respondents.
Among individuals of all age groups, the prevailing strategies for maintaining or enhancing their mental well-being are engaging in exercise or physical activities, participating in music, arts, or entertainment, practicing mindfulness, meditation, or spirituality, and engaging in social activities with friends and family.
The research company revealed the outcome of its studies during its media launch held on November 16, 2023, in Quezon City.
For more information, contact Capstone-Intel’s Research and Publications Director, Ella Kristina Domingo-Coronel, at 09565711298.