Medifast Survey Finds 8 out of 10 U.S. Adults say Practicing Daily "Self-Care Habits" is a Priority

BALTIMORE, Sept. 7, 2023

The survey of 2,000 nationally representative U.S. adults* found that 8 out of 10 indicate practicing daily self-care habits is a priority, with 64% thinking of self-care as balancing all aspects of health or creating habits that contribute to overall wellbeing. Respondents specifically identified exercise (33%), sleep (28%) and their mental and emotional health (27%) as the primary areas requiring the most attention and care.

Despite this, 41% have let their self-care practices falter over the past year, with many citing difficulties balancing all aspects of their health. Those struggling to prioritize self-care cited being too preoccupied with household chores and responsibilities (56%), family (49%) and work (47%).

"We are living in a world where the quest for optimal health and wellbeing is often a difficult, solitary and overwhelming journey for most people. Lack of time coupled with an abundance of information and products that promise quick fixes adds to the challenges of getting healthy," said Dan Chard, Chairman and CEO of Medifast. "These findings reaffirm consumers' desire to achieve optimal health and wellbeing and highlight their need for simple yet effective approaches that allow them to create daily habits – from incorporating more movement to getting quality sleep. As we expand OPTAVIA's offer, we will continue to present solutions that are clinically proven, realistic and prioritize lifestyle changes so we can meet even more people where they are to help them transform their lives."

Other notable findings include:

• The top self-care habits respondents are practicing include staying hydrated (48%), having a positive mindset (46%), going outside (43%), getting quality sleep (36%) and exercising regularly (33%).
• Three out of five (60%) U.S. adults noted the importance of having support from others when it comes to their ability to prioritize self-care.
• More than half (52%) agree that "self-care days" are only temporary fixes compared to practicing smaller daily habits.

"Dedicated, consistent self-care supports health and wellbeing by building a foundation of healthy habits, which are the cornerstone of lifestyle changes," said Satya Jonnalagadda, PhD, MBA, RDN, Vice President of Scientific and Clinical Affairs at Medifast. "No matter where you are in your journey incorporating health-promoting behaviors into your daily routine can help reduce stress, provide proper nutrition, ensure quality sleep and more."