A retrospective look at well-being in 2017

By Jeff Arnold, Chairman and CEO

January 15, 2018

The beginning of each new year is a time both for reflection and preparation – and for those of us engaged in improving the well-being of populations (not to mention ourselves), this retrospective look at Gallup-Sharecare Well-Being Index data over 2017 by Gallup’s editors puts some valuable insights into focus.

Although the year marked an overall decline in the well-being of Americans, it’s important to keep in mind that the five elements of well-being – purpose, social, financial, community and physical – are interconnected. For example, while the benefits of exercise on physical health are well known, the Well-Being Index revealed that adults aged 45 and older who did so regularly also experienced the greatest emotional health benefits and were more likely to have a positive outlook on life. Further, adults who reported eating healthy the day before being surveyed were 34.1% less likely to have depression than those who did not.

Findings like these serve as a reminder that our health is multifaceted, and factors like our behaviors, environments and access to resources can more broadly impact many dimensions of our overall health. As you recommit to your health and well-being in the year ahead, know that you have a partner in Sharecare, and we will continue to provide you with the tools, information and motivation you need to live your healthiest, happiest, and most productive lives throughout 2018 – and beyond.