Mental Wellbeing

Building back after two years of crisis

There are still heavy and increasing health burdens as a result of the pandemic — particularly in relation to mental health. Two years of crisis has taken its toll on individuals across the globe. 

Bupa Global’s Executive Wellbeing Index 2021 [1] found the majority (77 per cent) of global high-net-worth individuals experienced mental health issues last year. Their symptoms ranged from lack of energy and motivation, disturbed sleep, low mood and anger. 

The challenge does not look to be going away any time soon. According to the latest Global Risk Report by the World Economic Forum, 26% of respondents believe mental health deterioration will become a critical threat to the world in the next two years. [2] 

So, what steps can people take to build their mental wellbeing and resilience?

Boost your mood with food 

Feeling good is helped by a balanced diet that provides adequate amounts of ‘healthy choice’ carbohydrates at regular times to keep blood glucose levels stable. It is very important, and a good start, to eat breakfast. A varied diet can help with concentration, so eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and wholegrain cereal foods, with some protein, including oily fish. [3] 

Find balance 

Key to avoiding undue stress is to find a balance – before burnout strikes. Dr Pablo Vandenabeele, Bupa Global’s Clinical Director for Mental Health says “It’s important for everyone to have limited periods of stress that are balanced with rest and relaxation. When it’s too late it’s much harder to remedy burnout.” 

Experiment with wellness techniques 

Making time to exercise, practicing mindfulness, or simply spending time in nature, can be hugely beneficial to mental wellbeing. Dr Vandenabeele suggests experimenting with different techniques to find what works best. “What works to decrease stress and improve one person’s mental wellbeing may not work for somebody else. Finding ways to genuinely relax requires skills and experimentation.”  

Avoid self-medicating 

Everyone has different ways to alleviate stress, but Dr Vandenabeele warns against self-medicating (i.e., drinking, smoking, drug taking) as a coping mechanism as it can have a detrimental impact on mental health. “Self-medicating may be done to ease or target a particular symptom such as sleep, or to provide relief from difficult emotions, however it is important to stop the cycle, change habits and learn to manage stress.” 

Ask an expert 

Despite the majority of high-net-worth individuals experiencing symptoms of mental ill-health, the research found just one in five sought help from a doctor or medical professional to manage or prevent their mental health concerns. Dr Vandenabeele says: “Getting expert advice can be vital to early treatment and recovery. If you are struggling to cope with anxiety or stress, seek professional help as soon as possible.” 

Private Client by Bupa is helping to support people to feel their best and stay that way too.  

In one simple package with one single point of contact, Private Client by Bupa curates exceptional health and wellbeing services.  

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[1] Bupa Global Executive Wellbeing Index (September 2021).

[2] World Economic Forum – Global Risks Report 2022 - Page 25 (published January 2022).

[3] Bupa Global, Thrive to survive: Mood foods to help you thrive and survive during tough times (published October 2020).