A groundbreaking study conducted by Releaf, a medical cannabis clinic, has revealed a significant connection between economic inactivity and improved mental health across major cities in England.
The research challenges traditional perspectives on work-life balance, suggesting that stepping back from employment — whether by choice or necessity — may positively impact mental well-being.
Understanding Economic Inactivity
The study defines economic inactivity as encompassing students, early retirees, stay-at-home parents, carers, volunteers, entrepreneurs in transition, individuals on sabbaticals, gap year participants, investors, and those unable to work due to illness or disability. It does not include the unemployed.
This broader definition underscores the diversity of individuals who, while not engaged in traditional employment, contribute to society in unique and meaningful ways.
Top Cities Showcasing the Correlation
Analysis of data revealed that cities with higher rates of economic inactivity often report better mental health scores. The top ten cities demonstrating this correlation include:
|
City Name |
Mental Health Score |
Employment Rate |
Unemployment Rate |
Economic Inactivity Rate |
|
Chichester |
97 |
0.655 |
0.031 |
32.2% |
|
Birmingham |
99.3 |
0.659 |
0.072 |
28.3% |
|
Westminster |
108 |
0.702 |
0.050 |
25% |
|
Leicester |
95.4 |
0.651 |
0.067 |
28.1% |
|
Nottingham |
87.5 |
0.661 |
0.065 |
29.7% |
|
Wolverhampton |
104 |
0.703 |
0.062 |
23.4% |
|
London |
113.7 |
0.722 |
0.057 |
21.4% |
|
Canterbury |
87.6 |
0.672 |
0.033 |
27.7% |
|
Colchester |
98.7 |
0.755 |
0.039 |
24.5% |
|
Manchester |
94.3 |
0.714 |
0.051 |
25.5% |
Chichester leads the rankings with a mental health score of 97 and an economic inactivity rate of 32.2%.
Its emphasis on quality of life and local support networks underscores the positive outcomes for residents outside traditional employment structures. Birmingham follows closely, with a mental health score of 99.3 and an economic inactivity rate of 28.3%. The city’s cultural richness, coupled with access to green spaces, fosters an environment conducive to mental well-being.
Research Method:
The study utilized data from the Office for National Statistics and the UK Government's Health Index to evaluate the relationship between economic inactivity and mental health.
Key metrics included mental health scores, employment rates, and economic inactivity levels. Each city was ranked based on the strength of these correlations. The analysis provides a comprehensive perspective on how stepping back from the workforce can influence mental health outcomes positively.
Implications for Mental Health Policy
The findings challenge traditional narratives that equate employment with well-being. Instead, they highlight the potential benefits of re-evaluating work-life balance and promoting systems that support individuals during periods of economic inactivity. As mental health remains a national priority, this study emphasizes the importance of creating environments that allow individuals to prioritize their mental health, whether through policy changes, community support systems, or workplace reforms.
For Further Information
Full details of the study can be found at Releaf.
For media inquiries, contact Releaf via their website.
Sources and Methodology
The study draws on three key factors: - Mental health scores from the UK Government’s Health Index - Employment data from the Office for National Statistics - Economic inactivity metrics from the ONS Labour Market Local visualizations These elements were combined to create an index ranking cities by the correlation between economic inactivity and mental well-being.
Media Contact
Company Name: Releaf
Contact Person: Jon Dunn
Email: Send Email
Phone: 1116733411
Address:12 Hay Hill, Mayfair
City: London, W1J 8NR
Country: United Kingdom
Website: https://releaf.co.uk/
