How putting ourselves under too much pressure to be healthy is actually making us unwell

Putting ourselves under too much pressure to be healthy could actually be making us unwell, according to a new report.

Almost two-thirds of more than 15,000 adults questioned for a global survey said they felt ‘overwhelming societal expectations’ to appear well.

It is leading to ‘wellbeing burnout’, according to experts, who have warned that the pressure is causing people to fixate on what is lacking in their lives.

Research shows that it mostly affects the younger generations, with those in their 20s more than twice as likely to feel physical, mental and social pressure compared to those above the age of 60.

The data, gathered by athlete clothing brand Lululemon, also revealed that 53 per cent of people think there is too much conflicting information on how best to be healthy.

The report also revealed that 89 per cent of people are taking more action than they were a year ago to improve their wellbeing in some way (stock image)

The 2024 Global Wellbeing Report reads: ‘We are stuck in a perpetual cycle, where the more pressure we feel to be well, the less well we feel.

‘The cycle is fueled by three key pressure points – unrealistic societal expectations, conflicting information, and feeling that we’re going it alone’.

It recommends actions to help break the cycle including taking social media breaks, practicing meditation, moving your body throughout the day, spending time in nature or using physical activity to socialise.

The data showed that people who take part in group fitness classes report 15 per cent higher wellbeing, those who practice meditation report 9 per cent higher wellbeing, and those who set boundaries in their work and personal lives report 13 per cent higher wellbeing.

Dr Murali Doraiswamy, lululemon mental wellbeing global advisory board member, said: ‘Often, the pressure to improve our wellbeing causes us to overthink and fixate on what’s lacking in our lives.

‘I recommend setting gradual, achievable goals, turning the pursuit of wellbeing into a source of joy and anticipation rather than stress.’

The report also revealed that 89 per cent of people are taking more action than they were a year ago to improve their wellbeing in some way.