Well-being

Well-being is many-faceted with each part interacting with others in a system that contributes to how well we are in the present and likely to be in the future. These include our physical, psychological, social, environmental and economic well-being and the contribution of social justice & equity, environmental sustainability, peace & security and good governance to secure our well-being into the future.

The sections below will explore these areas, contributing factors and gaps to fill.

Physical Health

The biopsychosocial model offers a framework that emphasises the interconnectedness of biological, psychological, and social factors in shaping our physical health. Some of the more recognised contributing systemic factors are:

Socioeconomic Factors:

• Income and wealth: Access to resources, healthy food, safe housing, and quality healthcare are all influenced by socioeconomic status.
• Education: Health literacy, understanding of health risks and prevention strategies, and access to health information are all influenced by education levels.
• Employment: Job security, working conditions, and access to health insurance through employment can significantly impact physical health.

Environmental Factors:

• Pollution: Exposure to air, water, and soil pollution can lead to various health problems, including respiratory diseases, cancer, and cardiovascular issues.
• Climate Change: Extreme weather events, heat waves, and changes in disease patterns due to climate change can all affect physical health.
• Access to Green Spaces: Access to parks, gardens, and natural environments can promote physical activity, reduce stress, and improve overall health.

Healthcare Systems:

• Access to Care: Availability, affordability, and quality of healthcare services, including preventive care, treatment, and medications, are crucial for maintaining physical health.
• Health Insurance: Access to health insurance coverage can significantly impact affordability and access to healthcare services.
• Quality of Care: The quality of healthcare services, including the competence of healthcare providers and adherence to best practices, can influence health outcomes.

Social and Cultural Norms:

• Diet and Nutrition: Cultural norms around food and eating habits can influence dietary patterns and contribute to health issues such as obesity or malnutrition.
• Physical Activity: Social norms around exercise, leisure activities, and transportation choices can impact levels of physical activity.
• Substance Use: Cultural and social norms around alcohol, tobacco, and other substance use can influence health risks and behaviours.

Psychological Factors:

• Stress: Chronic stress can have a significant impact on physical health, contributing to cardiovascular disease, weakened immune function, and other health problems.
• Mental Health: Mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety can also affect physical health, and vice versa.
• Coping Mechanisms: Healthy coping mechanisms, such as exercise, mindfulness, and social support, can promote physical health, while unhealthy coping mechanisms, such as substance abuse, can have negative impacts.

These systemic factors are interconnected and can have a complex interplay in shaping physical health outcomes. Addressing these factors requires a multi-faceted approach that considers the broader social, environmental, and economic context in which individuals live.

Mental Health

Mental health affects many aspects of our lives, including our overall well-being, how we cope with stress, how we relate to others, our productivity and performance and our sense of fulfilment. Some of the more recognised contributing systemic factors are:

Social Determinants:

• Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs): Trauma, abuse, neglect, and household dysfunction in early childhood can have long-lasting impacts on mental health, increasing the risk of depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and other mental health disorders.
• Antagonistic Relationships: Relationships characterised by hostility, ongoing negativity and emotional abuse can increase emotional distress, anxiety, social isolation and depression as well as cause sleep disturbances and physical health problems such as headaches, stomach aches, muscle tension, fatigue and weakened immune system
• Social isolation and loneliness: Lack of social connections and support can contribute to feelings of isolation, loneliness, and depression. This is particularly relevant in today’s increasingly digital world.
• Discrimination and stigma: Experiencing discrimination based on race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, or other factors can negatively impact mental health, leading to stress, anxiety, and low self-esteem. The stigma surrounding mental illness can also prevent individuals from seeking help and accessing treatment.
• Social inequalities: Inequalities in access to education, employment, and healthcare can create barriers to mental well-being and contribute to disparities in mental health outcomes.

Economic Factors:

• Poverty and financial insecurity: Financial hardship can create significant stress and anxiety, increasing the risk of mental health problems. Poverty can also limit access to mental health services and support.
• Unemployment and job insecurity: Unemployment and underemployment can lead to feelings of hopelessness, worthlessness, and social isolation, contributing to poor mental health.

Environmental Factors:

• Exposure to violence and trauma: Living in communities with high rates of violence and crime can increase the risk of experiencing trauma and developing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or other mental health conditions.
• Natural disasters and climate change: Experiencing or witnessing natural disasters can have a profound impact on mental health, leading to anxiety, depression, and PTSD. Climate change is also contributing to increased stress and anxiety due to concerns about the future.
• Access to green spaces and nature: Access to nature and green spaces has been shown to have positive effects on mental health, reducing stress and promoting relaxation.

Healthcare System Factors:

• Access to mental health services: Access to affordable, quality mental health care is crucial for preventing and treating mental illness. Barriers to care, such as limited access to providers, and long wait times, can prevent individuals from receiving the help they need.
• Quality of mental health care: The quality of mental health services can vary significantly, affecting treatment outcomes and patient satisfaction.
• Mental health literacy: Understanding mental health conditions, recognizing symptoms, and knowing how to seek help are essential for promoting mental well-being and reducing stigma.

Political and Policy Factors:

• Mental health policies and legislation: Government policies and legislation can play a crucial role in promoting mental health and supporting individuals with mental illness. This includes funding for mental health services, anti-discrimination laws, and policies that address social determinants of mental health.
• Investment in mental health research: Continued research is essential for improving our understanding of mental health conditions, developing effective treatments, and reducing the burden of mental illness.

Social Well-being

Humans have evolved as social beings. It’s likely why we have not become extinct yet. Because of this, our connections and standing with others and the community impact our well-being across many dimensions. Some of the more recognised contributing systemic factors are:

Social Structures and Institutions:

• Social capital: The networks of relationships among people enabling society to function effectively. Strong social capital, fostered through community involvement, civic engagement, and trust, is crucial for social well-being.
• Social inclusion and equity: Where everyone has equal opportunities to participate and thrive, there tend to be higher levels of social well-being. Discrimination, marginalisation, and social exclusion can have detrimental effects.
• Cultural norms and values: Cultural norms and values that emphasise social connection, cooperation, and community well-being can foster a strong sense of belonging and social support.

Economic Factors:

• Income inequality: High levels of income inequality can create social divisions and erode social cohesion, negatively impacting social well-being.
• Employment opportunities: Access to meaningful and fulfilling employment provides economic security, social interaction, and a sense of purpose, all of which contribute to social well-being.
• Affordable housing: Secure and affordable housing is crucial for social stability and well-being, providing a sense of belonging and safety.

Environmental Factors:

• Safe and healthy communities: Living in safe and healthy environments, free from violence and crime, promotes social interaction and community cohesion.
• Access to green spaces and public spaces: Access to green spaces and public spaces facilitates social interaction, recreation, and community building.
• Sustainable communities: Sustainable communities that prioritise environmental protection and social equity can foster a sense of shared responsibility and collective well-being.

Technological Factors:

• Digital connectivity: Access to technology and the internet can enhance social connections and facilitate social participation, but it can also contribute to social isolation and comparison if not used mindfully.
• Social media: Social media can be a powerful tool for connecting with others, but it can also contribute to social comparison, cyberbullying, and a distorted sense of reality, negatively impacting social well-being.

Political and Governance Factors:

• Social policies and programs: Government policies and programs that support social inclusion, equity, and community development can enhance social well-being. 
• Civic participation and engagement: Opportunities for civic involvement and engagement, such as voting, volunteering, and community organising, can empower individuals and strengthen social bonds.
• Good governance: Transparent, accountable, and responsive governance can foster trust in institutions and promote social cohesion.

Environmental Well-being

The health of our planet and its ecosystems, impact human health and well-being, not only now but also to be able to sustain or improve levels of well-being in the future. Some of the more recognised contributing systemic factors are:

Natural Systems and Processes:

• Biodiversity: The variety of life on Earth is essential for ecosystem resilience, providing crucial services like pollination, water purification, and climate regulation. Loss of biodiversity weakens these systems and threatens environmental well-being.
• Climate change: Global warming is altering weather patterns, causing more extreme events, and disrupting ecosystems. This has far-reaching consequences for human health, food security, and access to clean water.
• Natural resource depletion: Overexploitation of resources like forests, minerals, and water can lead to environmental degradation, habitat loss, and reduced capacity to support life.
• Pollution: Air, water, and soil pollution from industrial activities, transportation, and agriculture harms human health and damages ecosystems.

Human Activities and Behaviors:

• Consumption patterns: Our consumption habits, particularly in developed countries, drive resource depletion and waste generation, contributing to environmental problems.
• Waste management: Inefficient waste management systems lead to pollution, habitat destruction, and health risks.
• Land use and development: Urban sprawl, deforestation, and unsustainable agricultural practices contribute to habitat loss, fragmentation, and ecosystem degradation.
• Energy production and consumption: Reliance on fossil fuels contributes to climate change and air pollution. Transitioning to renewable energy sources is crucial for environmental well-being.

Economic Systems and Policies:

• Economic growth paradigms: Prioritising endless economic growth often comes at the expense of environmental sustainability. Shifting towards a circular economy that values resource efficiency and waste reduction is essential.
• Environmental regulations: Government policies and regulations play a crucial role in protecting the environment, promoting sustainable practices, and mitigating pollution.
• Market mechanisms: Economic instruments like carbon pricing and environmental taxes can incentivise sustainable behaviour and internalise environmental costs.
• International cooperation: Global environmental challenges require international cooperation and agreements to address issues like climate change and biodiversity loss.

Social and Cultural Factors:

• Environmental awareness and education: Public awareness and understanding of environmental issues are crucial for driving sustainable behaviour and supporting environmental protection efforts.
• Values and beliefs: Cultural values and beliefs about nature and our relationship with the environment influence our actions and choices.
• Social equity and justice: Environmental problems often disproportionately affect marginalised communities. Addressing environmental injustice is crucial for ensuring equitable access to a healthy environment.

Technological Innovation:

• Clean technologies: Developing and implementing clean technologies, such as renewable energy and sustainable agriculture practices, is critical for mitigating environmental damage.
• Monitoring and assessment: Technological advancements in environmental monitoring and assessment help us understand environmental changes and track the effectiveness of interventions.

Economic Well-being

Economic well-being is a multifaceted concept that goes beyond just income levels. It encompasses financial security, access to opportunities, and the ability to participate fully in the economy. Here’s an outline of the systemic factors that influence it:

Macroeconomic Factors:

• Economic growth: Sustained economic growth can create jobs, increase incomes, and improve living standards. However, the benefits of growth must be distributed equitably to enhance overall well-being.
• Inflation and price stability: High inflation erodes purchasing power and creates economic uncertainty, negatively impacting economic well-being, particularly for those on fixed incomes.
• Unemployment rates: High unemployment reduces household income, increases financial stress, and limits access to opportunities, hindering economic well-being.
• Fiscal and monetary policies: Government policies related to taxation, spending, and interest rates can influence economic activity, employment levels, and income distribution.

Labor Market Dynamics:

• Job creation and quality: Access to quality jobs with decent wages, benefits, and opportunities for advancement is crucial for economic well-being.
• Skills and education: A skilled and educated workforce is essential for economic competitiveness and individual earning potential. Investment in education and training programs can enhance economic well-being.
• Labor market regulations: Policies related to minimum wage, working conditions, and worker protections can influence income levels and job security.
• Technological advancements: Technological changes can create new job opportunities but also lead to job displacement, requiring workforce adaptation and reskilling initiatives.

Social and Demographic Factors:

• Income inequality: High levels of income inequality can limit economic mobility and create social divisions, hindering overall economic well-being.
• Poverty: Poverty creates significant barriers to economic participation and opportunity, trapping individuals and families in a cycle of economic hardship.
• Access to healthcare and education: Access to affordable healthcare and quality education are crucial for human capital development and economic well-being.
• Discrimination: Discrimination based on race, gender, or other factors can limit access to opportunities and perpetuate economic disparities.

Financial Systems and Access to Capital:

• Access to credit and financial services: Access to affordable credit and financial services is essential for starting businesses, investing in education, and managing finances effectively.
• Financial literacy: Understanding financial concepts and managing money effectively is crucial for making informed financial decisions and achieving economic well-being.
• Asset building: Policies that promote asset building, such as homeownership and retirement savings programs, can enhance long-term financial security and economic well-being.

Global Economic Forces:

• International trade: Trade can create economic opportunities and increase access to goods and services, but it can also lead to job losses in certain sectors.
• Globalisation: Globalization has increased interconnectedness and competition, creating both opportunities and challenges for economic well-being.
• Migration: Migration can provide economic benefits for both sending and receiving countries, but it also raises concerns about wage competition and social integration.

Social Justice and Equity

Social justice and equity are fundamental to well-being at both the individual and societal levels. They’re about creating a fair and just society where everyone has equal opportunities to thrive, regardless of their background or social identity. Here’s how they affect well-being:

Improved Mental Health:

• Reduced stress and anxiety: When people experience discrimination, marginalization, or social exclusion, it can lead to chronic stress, anxiety, and low self-esteem. Social justice and equity promote inclusion and belonging, reducing these negative mental health effects.
• Increased sense of control and agency: When people feel like they have a voice and can participate in decisions that affect their lives, it enhances their sense of control and agency, promoting psychological empowerment and well-being.
• Stronger social connections: Social justice fosters a sense of community and connectedness, which is essential for mental well-being. Social isolation and loneliness are detrimental to mental health, and equitable societies tend to have stronger social support networks.

Better Physical Health:

• Reduced health disparities: Social injustice and inequities often lead to health disparities, with marginalized groups experiencing poorer health outcomes. Addressing these inequities can improve access to healthcare, healthy food, safe housing, and other resources that promote physical health.
• Improved living conditions: Social justice advocates for safe and healthy living conditions for all, reducing exposure to environmental hazards and promoting access to green spaces, which are beneficial for physical health.
• Reduced stress-related illnesses: Chronic stress associated with social injustice and discrimination can contribute to a range of physical health problems, including cardiovascular disease, weakened immune function, and chronic inflammation. Promoting equity can mitigate these effects.

Enhanced Economic Well-being:

• Increased economic opportunities: Social justice aims to remove barriers to economic participation, ensuring everyone has equal access to education, employment, and financial resources. This can lead to increased income, reduced poverty, and improved economic well-being for all.
• Fairer distribution of resources: Equitable societies strive for a fairer distribution of resources, reducing income inequality and promoting economic mobility. This can lead to greater economic security and stability for everyone.
• Stronger and more cohesive economies: Social justice and equity can contribute to stronger and more cohesive economies by fostering social trust, cooperation, and innovation.

Increased Social Well-being:

• Stronger communities: Social justice promotes social cohesion and a sense of belonging, strengthening communities and fostering social support networks.
• Increased civic engagement: When people feel like they are treated fairly and have a voice in society, they are more likely to participate in civic life and contribute to their communities.
• Reduced social conflict: Addressing social injustice and inequities can help reduce social conflict and promote peaceful coexistence.

Greater Overall Well-being:

• Increased life satisfaction: Studies have shown that people living in more equitable societies tend to report higher levels of life satisfaction and happiness.
• Improved sense of purpose and meaning: When people feel like they are valued members of society and can contribute to something larger than themselves, it enhances their sense of purpose and meaning in life.
• Increased resilience: Social justice and equity can foster resilience in individuals and communities, helping them cope with challenges and adversity.

Environmental Sustainability

Environmental sustainability is intrinsically linked to our well-being. It’s about ensuring that our planet’s resources and ecosystems are healthy and able to support life, both now and for future generations. Here’s how environmental sustainability affects our well-being:

Physical Health:

• Clean air and water: Environmental sustainability promotes clean air and water, reducing respiratory illnesses, cardiovascular problems, and other health issues caused by pollution.
• Safe and healthy food: Sustainable agricultural practices protect soil and water quality, ensuring access to safe and nutritious food, reducing the risk of foodborne illnesses and promoting healthy diets.
• Reduced exposure to hazards: Sustainable land use and waste management practices minimize exposure to environmental hazards like toxic waste and pollution, protecting human health.
• Resilience to natural disasters: Sustainable ecosystems are more resilient to natural disasters, reducing the impact on human lives and livelihoods.

Mental Health:

• Connection to nature: Access to green spaces and natural environments reduces stress, improves mood, and promotes psychological well-being. Environmental sustainability protects these valuable spaces.
• Sense of peace and tranquillity: Natural environments offer a sense of peace and tranquillity, providing respite from the stresses of modern life and promoting mental restoration.
• Reduced anxiety about the future: Knowing that we are taking steps to protect the planet for future generations can reduce anxiety and promote a sense of hope.

Social Well-being:

• Stronger communities: Sustainable practices often involve community engagement and collaboration, fostering social connections and a sense of shared responsibility.
• Reduced social inequalities: Environmental problems often disproportionately affect marginalized communities. Environmental sustainability promotes environmental justice and reduces these inequalities.
• Enhanced cultural heritage: Protecting natural and cultural heritage sites preserves our connection to the past and promotes a sense of identity and belonging.

Economic Well-being:

• Green jobs and economic growth: Investing in renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and green technologies creates new jobs and economic opportunities.
• Resource efficiency and cost savings: Sustainable practices often lead to more efficient use of resources, reducing costs for individuals and businesses.
• Resilient economies: Sustainable economies are less vulnerable to resource depletion and environmental shocks, promoting long-term economic stability.

Spiritual Well-being:

• Connection to something larger than oneself: For many people, nature provides a sense of awe and wonder, connecting them to something larger than themselves and fostering a sense of spirituality.
• Appreciation for the interconnectedness of life: Environmental sustainability promotes an understanding of the interconnectedness of all living things, fostering a sense of responsibility and care for the planet.

Peace and Security

Peace and security are fundamental pillars of well-being, creating the essential foundation for individuals and societies to flourish. Here’s how they affect various dimensions of well-being:

Physical Well-being:

• Reduced risk of injury and death: Conflict and violence are major causes of injury and death. Peace and security minimise these risks, allowing people to live without fear of physical harm.
• Improved access to healthcare: In peaceful and secure environments, healthcare systems can function effectively, providing essential services and improving public health.
• Food security: Conflict disrupts agriculture and food distribution, leading to food insecurity and malnutrition. Peace enables stable food production and access, promoting physical health.
• Safe living conditions: Secure environments allow for the development of safe housing and infrastructure, protecting people from environmental hazards and promoting physical safety.

Mental Well-being:

• Reduced stress and anxiety: Living with constant fear and uncertainty in conflict zones takes a toll on mental health. Peace provides a sense of safety and stability, reducing stress and anxiety.
• Lower rates of mental health disorders: Exposure to violence and trauma increases the risk of PTSD, depression, and other mental health conditions. Peaceful environments promote mental well-being and reduce the prevalence of these disorders.
• Opportunities for healing and recovery: Peace allows for the establishment of mental health services and support systems for individuals affected by conflict and trauma, promoting healing and recovery.

Social Well-being:

• Stronger social cohesion: Peace fosters trust and cooperation among individuals and communities, strengthening social bonds and promoting social cohesion.
• Increased social participation: In secure environments, people are more likely to engage in social activities, community events, and civic participation, fostering a sense of belonging and social connection.
• Reduced social inequalities: Conflict often exacerbates social inequalities. Peace and security create opportunities for addressing these inequalities and building a more just and equitable society.

Economic Well-being:

• Economic growth and development: Peace and security are essential for economic growth and development. Conflict disrupts businesses, destroys infrastructure, and hinders investment. Peace creates a stable environment for economic activity and prosperity.
• Increased employment opportunities: Stable economies in peaceful environments generate more job opportunities, improving livelihoods and reducing poverty.
• Access to education and opportunities: Peace allows for the establishment and proper functioning of educational institutions, providing children and youth with opportunities for personal and professional development.

Spiritual Well-being:

• Sense of hope and optimism: Peace fosters a sense of hope and optimism for the future, allowing individuals and communities to focus on building a better life.
• Freedom of expression and belief: Secure environments allow for the free expression of ideas and beliefs, promoting personal growth and spiritual well-being.

Good Governance

Good governance is essential for creating a society where people can thrive and reach their full potential. It’s about creating systems and institutions that are fair, accountable, and responsive to the needs of the people. Here’s how good governance affects well-being:

Enhanced Social Well-being:

• Social cohesion and trust: Good governance fosters trust in institutions and promotes social cohesion by ensuring fair treatment, equal opportunities, and respect for human rights. This creates a sense of belonging and shared purpose within a society.
• Reduced corruption: Corruption erodes trust, undermines institutions, and diverts resources away from essential services. Good governance combats corruption, promoting fairness and a level playing field for all.
• Increased civic participation: Good governance encourages citizen engagement and participation in decision-making processes, empowering individuals and strengthening communities.

Improved Economic Well-being:

• Sustainable economic growth: Good governance creates a stable and predictable environment for businesses to operate, attracting investment, creating jobs, and fostering economic growth.
• Reduced poverty and inequality: Good governance promotes policies that address poverty and inequality, ensuring that the benefits of economic growth are shared equitably.
• Efficient use of resources: Good governance ensures that public resources are used efficiently and effectively to provide essential services and infrastructure, improving the quality of life for all.

Better Physical Health:

• Improved public health: Good governance invests in public health infrastructure, promotes health education, and implements policies that address environmental health risks, leading to better health outcomes.
• Access to quality healthcare: Good governance ensures access to affordable and quality healthcare for all, reducing health disparities and promoting physical well-being.
• Safe and healthy living conditions: Good governance promotes policies that ensure safe and healthy living conditions, including access to clean water, sanitation, and safe housing.

Enhanced Mental Well-being:

• Reduced stress and anxiety: Good governance creates a sense of security and stability, reducing stress and anxiety associated with uncertainty and injustice.
• Increased social support: Good governance fosters strong social support networks and community cohesion, which are crucial for mental well-being.
• Protection of human rights: Good governance upholds human rights and protects vulnerable populations, promoting a sense of dignity and security.

Environmental Sustainability:

• Environmental protection: Good governance prioritises environmental protection and implements policies that promote sustainable development, ensuring a healthy planet for future generations.
• Climate action: Good governance takes action to address climate change, mitigating its impacts on human health and well-being.
• Resource management: Good governance ensures the sustainable management of natural resources, promoting long-term environmental and economic well-being.

Systemic Factors

Socioeconomic

• Income and wealth: Higher income and wealth are generally associated with better health outcomes, as they provide access to quality healthcare, nutritious food, safe housing, and opportunities for physical activity and stress management. Financial hardship can create significant stress and anxiety, increasing the risk of mental health problems. Poverty can also limit access to mental health services and support.
• Education: Education empowers individuals with knowledge and skills to make informed health choices, navigate the healthcare system, and access better job opportunities with improved health benefits.
• Employment: Stable and fulfilling employment provides financial security, social interaction, and a sense of purpose, all of which contribute to better mental and physical health. Conversely, unemployment and job insecurity can lead to stress, depression, and unhealthy coping mechanisms.
• Social support networks: Strong social connections and support systems provide emotional resilience, reduce stress, and promote healthy behaviours.
• Social inequalities: Inequalities in access to education, employment, and healthcare can create barriers to mental well-being and contribute to disparities in mental health outcomes.

A society based on well-being would prioritise access to quality healthcare, nutrition, housing, physical activity, stress management, education, sense of meaning, purpose & belonging and support irrespective of socioeconomic status. 

Environmental

• Air and water quality: Exposure to air and water pollution can lead to respiratory problems, cardiovascular disease, and other health issues.
• Food environment: Access to affordable, nutritious food is crucial for maintaining a healthy diet and preventing chronic diseases. Food deserts, areas with limited access to healthy food options, can contribute to poor nutrition and health disparities.
• Built environment and green spaces: The design of our communities and neighbourhoods can influence physical activity levels, access to green spaces, and exposure to environmental hazards. Access to nature and green spaces has been shown to have positive effects on mental health, reducing stress and promoting relaxation.
• Exposure to violence and trauma: Living in communities with high rates of violence and crime can increase the risk of experiencing trauma and developing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or other mental health conditions.

A society based on well-being would reduce pollution entering our airways and waterways, increase knowledge and resources in food deserts and plan community structures to include easy access to clean green spaces and social spaces 

Healthcare System

• Access to healthcare: Access to affordable, quality healthcare is essential for preventing and treating illness. Barriers to healthcare, such as limited access to providers, can lead to delayed or forgone care, resulting in poorer health outcomes.
• Quality of healthcare: The quality of healthcare services can vary significantly, affecting the effectiveness of treatment and patient outcomes.
• Health literacy: Individuals’ ability to understand health information and navigate the healthcare system is crucial for making informed health decisions and accessing appropriate care.

A society based on well-being would provide healthcare for all individuals without the need of private healthcare insurance. Evidence-based healthcare knowledge would be disseminated in free resources and educational workshops