Understanding Well-Being in Poland: Insights from the Global Flourishing Study

Abstract

This study explores well-being in Poland across psychological, social, economic, and spiritual dimensions, situating it within a global context using data from the Global Flourishing Study (GFS). Data from 10,389 individuals representative of the Polish population were analyzed. The study examined multiple well-being indicators including psychological, social, spiritual, and economic outcomes, alongside health, character strengths and prosocial behaviors. Variations in well-being were assessed based on demographic factors, including gender, age, marital status, religiosity, immigration status, and labor market status. Poles report relatively higher psychological well-being, including happiness, life satisfaction, present life evaluation, inner peace, and life balance compared to global metrics of GFS countries. Perceived freedom and optimism are slightly lower. Retirees (aged 60+) exhibit notable psychological resilience, and spiritual flourishing. Social well-being highlights strong social support but low community participation. Psychological distress, including depression and traumatic suffering, is less prevalent than in other GFS countries. However, physical health presents mixed results - self-rated health is comparatively high and physical pain is less common, risky behaviors (smoking, drinking, low exercise frequency) remain concerns. Character strengths and prosocial behavior, such as delayed gratification, gratitude, forgiveness, and volunteering are lower than GFS means. Financial and material security is relatively strong, yet religious engagement is shifting: despite declining institutional participation, 61% of Poles find spiritual comfort, and 28% meditate or pray daily. Poland’s well-being landscape reflects both strengths and challenges, with notable demographic differences.