Connecticut Attains Seventh Place in National Mental Health Rankings

In a recent comprehensive study analyzing various health indicators, Connecticut has secured the seventh spot in the national rankings for mental well-being, with a commendable score of 75.0. The study, conducted by Leafwell, evaluated factors such as frequent mental distress, life expectancy, physical inactivity, access to exercise, and median household income to assess the overall mental health of each state.

Hawaii emerged as the frontrunner in the rankings, boasting a remarkable score of 91.4, while West Virginia lagged behind with a score of 5.6.

Connecticut’s performance in the study significantly surpassed the national average, demonstrating the state’s commitment to mental health and overall well-being.

Leafwell’s analysis took into account various critical health metrics, with Connecticut’s score of 75.0 placing it firmly in the top ten states. The state’s median annual income of $83,600, 21.3% higher than the national average, reflects its robust economic stability. Additionally, Connecticut exceeds the national average life expectancy, with residents typically reaching the age of 80. The state also reports fewer poor mental health days, with only 13% of the population experiencing frequent mental distress, compared to the 14% collective average in other states. Furthermore, Connecticut maintains a relatively high 80% physical activity rate among its residents, with 93% having access to exercise opportunities, surpassing the national average of 81%.

Dr. Mitchell L. Doucette, Director of Research at Leafwell, commented on the study’s findings, stating, “As we delve into the intricacies of Connecticut’s health metrics, it becomes evident that factors such as access to exercise opportunities, median household income, and mental health resources play pivotal roles in shaping the well-being of communities. By highlighting the attributes of Connecticut and other leading states in the top rankings, we aim to inspire conversations and initiatives that prioritize comprehensive approaches to improve the quality of life for residents nationwide.”

Top Five States for Mental Health:

1. Hawaii – Score: 91.4
2. Massachusetts – Score: 83.0
3. New Jersey – Score: 80.1
4. California – Score: 79.5
5. Colorado – Score: 79.4

Hawaii clinched the top spot with an impressive health score of 91.4. Despite its relatively small population of 1.4 million, Hawaii is renowned for its stress-free environment, boasting the highest average life expectancy in the nation at 82.3 years. The state also excels in mental well-being, experiencing an average of only 3.6 days of poor mental health per month. Remarkably, just 11% of the population reports more than 14 days of poor mental health in a given month, indicating low levels of frequent mental distress.

Bottom Five States for Mental Health:

1. West Virginia – Score: 5.6
2. Arkansas – Score: 8.7
3. Mississippi – Score: 8.9
4. Alabama – Score: 14.9
5. Kentucky – Score: 15.0

West Virginia secured the lowest overall well-being score of just 5.6. With a population of 1.7 million, a concerning 19% of residents report experiencing frequent mental distress, equivalent to more than 14 days of poor mental health in a given month. This alarming percentage is the highest recorded across the United States. Additionally, the state faces the challenge of the second-lowest life expectancy at 74.3 years, notably four years below the national average, highlighting a critical health disparity.

Full State Ranking for Mental Health

Sources: University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute 

Methodology: The study analyzed the mental and physical well-being across all 50 states. An index was developed by gathering statistics on median household income, frequent mental distress, poor mental health days, access to exercise opportunities, physical inactivity rate, life expectancy, and population. By averaging the data and combining each variable, a health score out of 100 was calculated, respectfully ranking each state.