New Zealand’s Perception of Overall Well-Being Declines in 2018, according to the Cigna 3600 Well-Being Survey

New Zealand’s current perception of its overall health and well-being shows a decline from last year, due mainly to Social and Family Wellness indicators, according to the 2018 Cigna3600 Well-Being Survey. Women and those aged 35-49 years have the lowest overall health and well-being index scores, compared to men and other age groups.

Now in its fourth year, the Cigna 3600 Well-Being Survey explores people’s well-being perceptions and concerns across five key areas – physical, health, family, social, financial and work. This year’s survey is Cigna’s most global yet, covering a total of 23 countries around the world.

22% of New Zealanders are aware of the impact the current economic climate might have on their financial situation, up 6% from 2017 figures. However, less than one in five say they would be financially secure if they were unable to work.

“These findings have wide reaching ramifications – with New Zealanders feeling they have to stay focused on their current commitments to stay afloat, leaving little time to spend thinking about, or preparing for, their future,” said Gail Costa, Cigna New Zealand Chief Executive.

“We’ve themed our 2018 research as ‘Future Assured’, asking questions to get people thinking about the issues that will affect their lives ahead. As we go through the many stages in our lives, our perceptions of our well-being will change, and at these various stages we should always re-assess ourselves and see how we can work toward preparing for the next milestone. This ongoing research will provide a guide for Cigna in supporting our customers as they go through their life stages,” adds Costa.

Stress is an important issue that affects nearly everyone, with one in five respondents claiming stress is unmanageable, mainly driven by work and finance-related issues. 68% of people said that workplace wellness programmes help them manage stress.

Costa concluded, “Cigna New Zealand recognises the importance of walking the talk via our internal Health and Well-being programme, with new programmes rolled out quarterly, focused on building a people-focussed, supportive, achievement-oriented and collaborative culture. Our staff have indicated, through internal surveys, this has had a positive impact on their own health and wellbeing – both at work and at home.”

-Ends-

© Scoop Media