Happiest state to live in? It's not Michigan

When it comes to well-being, Michigan could use a boost - a big one.

Michigan ranked 42nd of 50 states in a five-point measurement that included questions about happiness and purpose, in the Gallup-Healthways Well-Being Index. Alaska took the top spot; West Virginia came in last for the sixth time in six years.

This year's rankings, released Thursday, were based on more than 176,000 phone interviews with people in all 50 states.

At least 500 people were interviewed nearly every day of the year to account for seasonal changes, said Dan Witters, research director of the Gallup-Healthways Well-Being Index.

The poll looked at five factors: Liking and being motivated by what you do every day, having supportive relationships and love, managing finances to reduce stress, feeling safe in and proud of your community, and having good health and enough energy.

While Michiganders answered positively that they had experienced happiness on the day before they were interviewed, they were less likely than residents in other states to find purpose in their current role or to feel their talents were being used - whether paid worker, stay-at-home parent, or student, Witters said.

But what about the Michigan's deep winters? Biting cold days, ice and gray?

Remember that Alaska isn't known for tropic warmth; neither is No. 3-ranked South Dakota.

"Being involved in your community, managing your finances, spending time with families and drawing positive energy from that, and seeking out opportunities to use your strength - those are things that don't relay on the weather," Witters said.

Nikki Sulaica, a family and child therapist at Henry Ford Health System Behavioral Health Services, agrees: A single factor can affect, but shouldn't be the sole reason, for happiness or unhappiness.

Yes, long, dark winters can be depressing and isolating, she said. Plus, Michigan's economy has overwhelmed many of its young adults, said Sulaica, who has spent 13 years assisting metro Detroit's families and children.

"Quality of life tanks because the 8-8-8 Rule is not being followed," she said.

That's eight hours of work, eight hours for yourself and eight hours of sleep, and it's not as daunting as it sounds.

Think coloring books.

"I challenge people: 'What were you like when you were young? When the world hadn't yet told you that there are rules and bills, what did you love?' " she said.

Instead of saying, "I need to meditate," clear your mind by simply grabbing a coloring book and some crayons. Instead of saying, "I need to exercise," throw on your sneakers, bundle up and go outside — even for a few minutes — to get that fresh air, even if it is chilly.

Top 10 states ranked highest for overall well-being:

1. Alaska

2. Hawaii

3. South Dakota

4. Wyoming

5. Montana

6. Colorado

7. Nebraska

8. Utah

9. New Mexico

10. Texas

The 10 states ranked lowest for overall well-being:

41. Missouri

42. Michigan

43. Arkansas

44. Tennessee

45. Alabama

46. Mississippi

47. Ohio

48. Indiana

49. Kentucky

50. West Virginia

USA TODAY reporter Mary Bowerman contributed to this story. Follow @MaryBowerman on Twitter.