In the midst of a worldwide decline in mental health, a recent report from the Global Mind Project has positioned Sri Lanka as a beacon of well-being. The “Mental State of the World” report, drawing insights from over 400,000 participants across 71 countries, unveils a compelling narrative of Sri Lanka’s exceptional mental health standing.
Sri Lanka Leads in ‘Mental Health Quotient’ Scores and Social Well-being
Surpassing all expectations, Sri Lanka secures the second-highest average Mental Health Quotient (MHQ) scores globally. The study, initiated by neuroscience research organization Sapien Labs, gauges various dimensions of mental well-being, including Social Self, Mood & Outlook, Adaptability & Resilience, Drive & Motivation, Cognition, and Mind-Body Connection. Notably, Sri Lanka claims a top spot in Social Self scores, indicating strong interpersonal connections and community support.
Lowest Distress Levels – A Testament to Sri Lanka’s Resilience
The Global Mind Project’s report delves into the percentage of distressed or struggling individuals in each country. Sri Lanka emerges among the frontrunners, boasting one of the lowest percentages (ranging from 14 to 17%). This statistic underscores the nation’s resilience and ability to weather the mental health challenges posed by the pandemic.
Happiness Soars: Sri Lanka Among the World’s Happiest Countries
In a heartening revelation, Sri Lanka secures its place among the happiest countries globally, standing tall alongside nations like the Dominican Republic and Tanzania. The study places emphasis on factors such as Mood & Outlook, showcasing Sri Lanka’s positive mental attitude and overall contentment.
Sri Lanka – A Global Model for Mental Well-being Amidst Adversity
As the world grapples with the impact of the pandemic on mental health, Sri Lanka emerges as a shining example of resilience, community support, and unwavering positivity. The Global Mind Project’s findings position Sri Lanka as a global model for maintaining mental well-being in the face of unprecedented challenges, fostering hope and inspiration for the international community.
Sri Lanka is currently undergoing its most severe economic downturn since gaining independence from Britain in 1948, with a negative economic growth of -8.4% reported in the second quarter of 2022, as per the Central Bank. The World Bank ranks Sri Lanka as having the seventh-highest food price inflation globally. Additionally, the country’s usable foreign reserves hit a record low of US$1.80 billion in November 2022, compared to US$7.5 billion in November 2019. In a historic move, Sri Lanka defaulted on its debt for the first time in May 2022, suspending repayment of a significant US$51 billion in foreign debt. (LankaXpress.com )
