Low Psychological Distress Doesn't Always Indicate Better Wellbeing in Daily Life

Recent research conducted by the University of Western Australia reveals that experiencing low levels of distress does not necessarily equate to an overall sense of wellbeing in daily life. Traditionally, mental health assessments have operated under the assumption that distress and wellbeing are opposites; reducing one would automatically enhance the other. However, this new study challenges that notion, emphasizing that distress (such as negative emotions and low mood) and mental wellbeing (like positive emotions and a sense of purpose) can coexist and fluctuate independently.

The study involved 345 participants, including individuals with and without mental health diagnoses. Over the course of a week, participants completed six surveys each day, providing real-time insights into their emotional states and life experiences. The findings showed that increases in distress do not necessarily lead to decreases in wellbeing, and vice versa. Remarkably, the relationship between distress and wellbeing is more complex than previously thought, especially among those with mental health conditions like depression, where these states may be even more distinct.

Lead researcher Jackson Mason Stephens from UWA explained that these results highlight the importance of assessing both distress and wellbeing separately in clinical settings. Accurate understanding of a person's mental state requires recognizing that low distress levels do not always mean high wellbeing. This nuanced view can inform more effective therapeutic approaches that aim not just to reduce distress but also to foster positive aspects of mental health.

Overall, the research emphasizes a dual-approach in mental health treatment strategies, focusing on reducing distress while simultaneously promoting wellbeing to achieve optimal mental health outcomes.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-05-distress-wellbeing-daily-life.html