The stressors we encounter, how we perceive them and adapt to them, depends on a slew of variables of course, from geography to genetics. The opportunities to meet people where they are, by offering supportive health solutions, has evolved and expanded in light of the pandemic and its cascading effects around the world.

According to Gallup’s 2022 Global Emotions Report, positive experiences declined around the world in 2021 while negative experiences increased. “As people worldwide lived on a steady diet of uncertainty in the second year of the pandemic … people felt less well-rested and fewer derived enjoyment from the previous day,” Gallup reported.

In 2021 the world was a slightly sadder, more worried, and more stressed out place than it was the year before—even if people were a little less angry, the report noted.

In the introduction to Gallup’s report, CEO Jon Clifton put the survey in context: “Our emotions influence our decisions, actions and even our cognition—sometimes for better, sometimes for worse. But when our bodies and minds are overwhelmed with the worst emotions, our chances of making regrettable decisions increase. And acting out on negative emotions spreads negative emotions faster than a virus, especially when amplified over social media.”

Policymakers should understand why so many more people are experiencing unprecedented negative emotions, Clifton suggested. “Our shared humanity and wellbeing depend on it,” he wrote.

Companies in the wellness marketplace should understand how and why people are struggling too, not just to capitalize on new opportunities but to positively influence health and humanity as well.

As Joe Daly, a senior partner at Gallup wrote in a recent article, “The landscape for how organizations and leaders can positively influence society is rapidly changing. While contributing to high-visibility philanthropic efforts and funding community-based corporate social responsibility activities are still important, the demands are now greater.”

People want to know how companies benefit society through the products and services they offer, Daly said. “They’re choosing organizations that are authentically purpose-driven—those that are committed to making a difference at all scales and for everyone they encounter. In addition, all stakeholders want to see evidence that corporate philanthropic investments are truly making a positive difference for society. This shift presents a considerable challenge—but also an incredible opportunity to meaningfully change the world.”