Week 26: Health, wealth and happiness

This week’s well-being index increases by 4 points registering at 42, signalling a rise in the nation’s mood.

Whether it’s the relief of casting their votes in the general election or the hype of the World Cup as marketers focus on sport, summer and leisure pursuits, the increase in well-being appears to be driven by both sexes this week. Amongst men the index increases by 6 points to 41%, its highest for nine weeks. This maintains the all-round boost seen last week. Exactly half of women questioned (50%) reported feeling happier this week, a good sign for marketers, who will be hoping to engage the female demographic whilst they are more receptive to campaigns.

There is an increase in health levels across all groups, with the exception of the middle-aged band, whose health satisfaction remains unchanged at a stable 42%. Perhaps the promise of a warm summer has encouraged families to enjoy more outdoor activities together, making the most of the weather and feeling the health benefits. Just under two thirds of young people questioned are satisfied with their health. The substantial nine point increase suggests that marketers are successfully engaging 16-34 year olds with summer health and fitness campaigns, encouraging them to lead a healthier lifestyle.

Whilst financial satisfaction amongst men and 16-34 year olds remains stable this week, there are notable decreases across the other groups. Less than a quarter of women (24%) are financially content following a substantial eight point drop. Perhaps the combination of a recent hung parliament and the coalition government’s new budget plans are placing greater financial burdens on the nation as they organise summer plans.

Here are the results by each demographic:

Young People
A bumper increase across all aspects this week suggests the younger generation have moved into a period of stability, following several unsettled weeks. Most notable is the boost in health levels mentioned, which are the highest for five weeks. Nearly half (45%) of those questioned reported feeling happy this week. Perhaps the start of summer music festivals and organising holidays are behind the boost in morale.

Middle- aged Band
Only a fifth (20%) of those questioned feel financially satisfied, the lowest for four weeks. Incidentally, they are the only group to register a drop in happiness levels. As the rest of the nation enjoys the start of summer, perhaps the pressures of family life weigh heavily on this group.

Grey Market
Financial satisfaction tumbles by 7 points to 34%, its lowest for eight weeks. Despite this, happiness remains unchanged with over half questioned feeling happy this week, suggesting that the fluctuation amongst their financial circumstances has little effect on their spirits.