How Putting Too Much Pressure On Ourselves To Be Healthy Is Actually Making Us Sick

Putting too much pressure on ourselves to stay healthy could actually make us sick, a new report finds.

Nearly two-thirds of the more than 15,000 adults who participated in a global survey said they faced “overwhelming societal expectations” to look good.

According to experts, this leads to a ‘wellbeing burnout’. They warn that the pressure causes people to focus on what is missing in their lives.

Research shows that it particularly affects younger generations, with people in their 20s more than twice as likely to experience physical, mental and social pressure compared to those over 60.

The data, collected by sportswear brand Lululemon, also found that 53 percent of people believe there is too much conflicting information about the best way to stay healthy.

Nearly two-thirds of more than 15,000 adults who participated in a global survey said they felt “overwhelming societal expectations” to look good (stock image)

The report also found that 89 percent of people are taking more action than a year ago to improve their well-being in some way (stock image)

The 2024 Global Wellbeing Report states: ‘We are stuck in a perpetual cycle where the more pressure we feel to feel good, the worse we feel.

‘This cycle is fueled by three major bottlenecks: unrealistic societal expectations, conflicting information, and the sense that we are on our own.’

Actions are recommended that can break the cycle, such as taking breaks from social media, meditating, moving throughout the day, spending time in nature, or using physical activity to socialize.

The data showed that people who participate in group fitness classes experience a 15 percent higher sense of well-being, people who meditate experience a 9 percent higher sense of well-being, and people who set boundaries in their work and personal lives experience a 13 percent higher sense of well-being.

Dr Murali Doraiswamy, member of the lululemon mental wellbeing global advisory board, said: ‘The pressure to improve our wellbeing often causes us to overthink and focus on what’s missing in our lives.

“I recommend setting gradual, achievable goals and turning the pursuit of wellness into a source of joy and anticipation rather than stress.”

The report also found that 89 percent of people are taking more action than a year ago to improve their well-being in some way.