by George Washington University

Example self-report measures of subjective well-being. Credit: Nature Mental Health (2025). DOI: 10.1038/s44220-024-00381-4

A new study published in Nature Mental Health underscores the critical role of assessing well-being in clinical research and treatment.

Led by Fallon Goodman of the George Washington University, the study highlights how well-being, beyond the absence of mental illness, is essential for long-term health outcomes, including resilience, recovery, and overall quality of life.

Despite its importance, well-being is often overlooked in mental health research. The study identifies challenges in measuring well-being, such as inconsistencies in assessment methods, and offers recommendations to improve research approaches.

By incorporating well-being metrics into clinical trials and treatment evaluations, researchers and clinicians can gain a more comprehensive understanding of mental health and enhance patient outcomes.

More information: Fallon R. Goodman, Assessing well-being in clinical research and treatment, Nature Mental Health (2025). DOI: 10.1038/s44220-024-00381-4

Journal information: Nature Mental Health 

Provided by George Washington University