Millions of Brits Encouraged to Take New Health and Wellbeing Quiz
Millions of adults in England have the opportunity to improve their mood and wellbeing by completing the Healthy Choices Quiz, a new five-minute online tool launched by the government and the NHS.
Personalised Health Advice Through a Quick Online Quiz
The Healthy Choices Quiz offers users personalised steps to enhance their health, mood, and energy. Designed to be mobile-friendly and interactive, the quiz identifies practical lifestyle changes and links participants to trusted NHS resources for support.
Research conducted by University College London estimates that 19 million adults in middle age could experience mood improvements through healthy lifestyle changes, with increased physical activity showing benefits in as little as four weeks.
The initiative supports the government’s 10 Year Health Plan, which aims to shift the NHS focus from treating sickness to preventing it, while promoting digital healthcare solutions that empower individuals to manage their health.
Government Support and Campaign Focus
Health Minister Ashley Dalton stated that the quiz offers an accessible first step for people to adopt healthier lifestyles. Dalton highlighted the government’s ongoing efforts to address smoking, obesity, and mental health, and noted that the quiz provides expert NHS guidance directly to users.
The campaign specifically targets adults aged 40–60 and those from more deprived backgrounds, encouraging them to identify areas where they may need health support.
Quiz Features and Topics
The quiz covers areas such as nutrition, physical activity, smoking, vaping, alcohol use, mental health, and sleep. Participants receive a score out of ten along with tailored advice and links to free NHS apps and tools, including the Active 10 app for fitness and the NHS Every Mind Matters webpage for mental wellbeing guidance.
Public Figures Promote the Campaign
Radio and TV presenters Rickie Haywood-Williams and Melvin Odoom have endorsed the quiz and appear in a short film sharing their health experiences and quiz results. They discuss the lifestyle changes they have adopted, their motivations, and the benefits observed.
Rickie Haywood-Williams noted that becoming a parent has increased his focus on health, particularly walking and cycling. He described the quiz as a practical tool that provides manageable advice for incorporating healthier habits into a busy schedule.
Melvin Odoom described joining a running club and moderating alcohol consumption as lifestyle adjustments that improved his mood and energy. He highlighted the quiz for offering realistic suggestions tailored to individual lifestyles.
Expert Insights and Evidence
A recent review by University College London using Health Survey for England data underscores that millions could benefit from healthier choices, such as quitting smoking, reducing alcohol intake, improving diet, and increasing physical activity.
Dr Radha Modgil, NHS GP and broadcaster, stated that the quiz offers a straightforward starting point for adults to understand their current health status and receive practical tips to improve energy, mood, and overall wellbeing. She emphasized that the quiz is supported by NHS apps and tools to aid progress.
Additional Health Initiatives
The Healthy Choices Quiz is part of broader efforts to empower adults to live healthier lives. Other initiatives include a forthcoming digital NHS points scheme that rewards positive health actions and engagement with businesses on incentivising health-promoting behaviours.
User Experiences
Several participants have shared their experiences. Melissa, 41, from London, reported that the quiz helped her refocus on small, achievable changes to improve sleep and dietary habits. Craig, 49, also from London, noted that it introduced him to NHS tools for better balance in food and alcohol consumption. Ian, 59, from the West Midlands, described using the quiz to complement his walking routine and improve dietary choices. Kristina, 41, and Joanne, 45, highlighted the quiz’s role in helping them identify actionable steps to manage health amidst busy schedules.
Support from Health Organisations
Dr Richard Piper, CEO of Alcohol Change UK, emphasized that many individuals struggle to understand the impact of alcohol on health. He stated that interactive tools such as the Healthy Choices Quiz provide a clear connection between lifestyle choices and physical and mental wellbeing. Alcohol Change UK supports the quiz by offering additional free guidance for those seeking to adjust their alcohol consumption.