Five Ways to Wellbeing
A First Steps NZ Resource by the Mental Health Foundation
The Five Ways to Wellbeing were created as a result of the New Economics Foundation’s (NEF) Foresight Project on Mental Capital and Wellbeing research report.
NEF conducted a review of the most up-to-date evidence and found that building five actions into day to day lives is important for the wellbeing of individuals, families, communities and organisations.
You can introduce any of these actions into your life, any time, and you will begin to feel the benefits. Whakatōkia ngā rautaki māmā nei ki tō ao kia rongo ai koe i ngā painga.
Browse More Popular Resources
View and download our most popular First Steps NZ tools and resources.
The Wellness Paradox: When Health Goals Become a Health Hazard
In recent years, the pursuit of health has gained significant fervour, becoming a cultural phenomenon. With new wellness boutiques popping up on every corner and social media feeds filled with curated routines—showcasing everything from cryotherapy to alkaline diets—this landscape can make wellness feel less like a personal journey and more like a public performance.
Understanding Highly Sensitive Persons
Some people possess a unique sensitivity that sets them apart from others. They experience the world with a depth of feeling that can be overwhelming at times. While your colleague might easily brush off a manager’s criticism, the same remark could profoundly affect you.
Navigating Digital Wellbeing
In today’s fast-paced world, where technology is deeply integrated into our daily lives, the line between work and personal life is becoming increasingly blurred – a phenomenon known as techno-invasion (Mondo et al., 2023). This concept highlights how the constant connectivity facilitated by digital platforms can intrude into personal time, leading to a seamless blend of work and leisure that can impact our wellbeing.
The Neuroscience of Burnout
Burnout doesn’t just happen overnight—it sneaks up on the “dedicated and committed,” those who pour everything into their work, only to find themselves drained, detached, and doubting their own abilities.
Coping with Financial Stress
Every day we are reminded that we are living in challenging economic times. With the cost of living increasing, you may feel worried about your finances and are struggling to make ends meet. Feeling all sorts of emotions in difficult times in normal. Many New Zealanders are struggling with money and experiencing financial stress at any given time.
Five Common Myths about Wellbeing
Our mental health and wellbeing affect not only our mood but every aspect of our lives. It’s good news that mental health awareness has never been higher. Encouraging people to talk openly about their challenges helps to break down the stigma long associated with mental health difficulties.





