(© ladysuzi – Stock.adobe.com)
The survey showed that an adult feels healthy only 16 days a month during the winter
New York – A recent nationwide survey revealed that Americans spend less than half of their winter days feeling completely healthy, with survey participants reporting that they feel 100% fit for just 16 days during the average winter month. The study, which surveyed 2,000 Americans, including 951 partners, offers a revealing glimpse into how the disease affects relationships and daily life during the colder months.
The research he conducted Speaker search Zipfizz, which commissioned it in December 2024, found that energy deficiency is the most common health complaint in winter, affecting 58% of participants. This was followed by classic cold symptoms, with 42% suffering from a cough, 40% suffering from a sore throat, and 38% suffering from congestion.
Perhaps most interesting, the study revealed the dynamics of how couples cope with illness. A third of those living with partners described their partner as a ‘baby’ when he or she is sick. Partners were also described as stubborn (25%) and hot-headed (23%), while 22% reported that their partner refuses to admit they are sick at all.
The survey revealed some unexpected manifestations of exposure to weather conditions. Nearly a third of participants (29%) reported that they mixed up the days of the week, while 21% found themselves getting into arguments with loved ones. In more unusual cases, 14% admitted to putting things in strange places, such as keys in the refrigerator.
“Winter is a stressful time of year and is often crowded, so being uncomfortable can really hold us back,” said Marcella Canalos, a Zipfizz spokeswoman. “The results show that many people feel less than their best during half the season, and this negatively affects our mood, energy and overall enjoyment of life.”
12 strange behaviors survey respondents say they did when they were sick
- Put the shoes in the refrigerator
- I can’t remember their names
- Forget to make coffee
- Put on two different high-heeled shoes, the same color, quickly
- Forget to pick up the kid from school
- He drove with pizza on the roof of the car
- Leave groceries on the bus
- Forget why they left home
- Go to work on a day off
- Forget the important doctor’s appointment
- Forget the wallet/wallet with ID card at home
- He accidentally threw the phone with the trash
When it comes to disease management, Americans typically experience “sick suspicion” for a couple of days before they actually become ill. Once sick, they reported their condition twice a day until recovery, with the study noting that there was no difference between genders in the frequency of complaints. A typical chill on the sidelines of individuals lasts for an average of three days.
The research also explored preventive measures. Staying hydrated emerged as the most popular proactive step (80%), followed by using vitamins and supplements (77%) and adequate rest (75%). When illness strikes, 61% prioritize rest, 58% focus on hydration, and 46% resort to medication.
“Taking small steps before feeling sick in order to prepare yourself well from a health perspective can make a big difference,” Canalos explained. “Just staying on top of your hydration can make or break your winter.”
methodology: The survey was conducted online by Talker Research from December 5 to 9, 2024, and included a sample of 2,000 Americans, including 951 individuals living with partners. This study was conducted by Zipfizz to examine common winter health challenges and coping strategies.