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Americans may need a reality-check when it comes to their health. Though most Americans consider themselves to be in good health, according to Health and Wellbeing in America, a survey sponsored by CIGNA HealthCare and the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports differently.

Despite the fact that more than half of those surveyed said that they are in "excellent or very good health," they agree that others would say that they have to lose 10 pounds, and according to the CDC, about two-thirds of Americans are actually overweight or obese.

While over eight out of 10 Americans believe that others will say that they live a balanced life and manage stress effectively, the National Institute of Mental Health estimates that one in four American adults suffers from a diagnosable mental disorder.

"Addressing the gap between consumers’ perception of health and reality is a vital first step in encouraging actions that will result in health improvement," said Dr. Allen Woolf, CIGNA senior vice president and medical officer, "Lifestyle choices contribute significantly to many health risks, but most people can make meaningful changes in health behaviors with the right support system and strategies for their personal needs and situation."

Physical health isn’t the only definition of wellbeing. Mental, emotional and spiritual aspects are all significant contributors to a personal sense of wellbeing as well, according to the survey.

The most important contributor is a strong faith in a divine being, then harmonious family relations and feeling well physically, the survey showed.

Money and success at work are rated as important by fewer than freedom from illness and disease, good hygiene and mental wellness.

"We have long known the relationship between the health of the mind and the body," said Keith Dixon, president of CIGNA Behavioral Health and Care Allies. "That’s why it’s important to take a holistic view of each individual and the many factors that influence his or her health habits."

Age, income and where people live are all factors that contribute to Americans’ views of their health and wellbeing, according to the survey. Elderly and low-income households are likely to cite managing serious disease and illness the most important health issue. Adults ages 25-49 and those from wealthier households are likely to choose losing weight as their most important.

There are reasons to be both optimistic and pessimistic about these findings. According to the survey, Americans do know that diet and exercise are the fundamentals of good health.

"The survey findings also suggest that while overall we might be able to identify what to do to be healthy, we’re having less success when it comes to acknowledging risk, motivating ourselves to make changes and knowing how to make these changes successfully," said Woolf.

Poor habits and lack of discipline are obstacles getting in the way of exercising. Many Americans say that are experience stress related symptoms, including neck and back pain, have trouble controlling their anger and are overworked, the survey said.

To cope with stress and anger, people mostly turn to their families for support followed by doctors, friends and religious organizations. For information, Americans turn to their doctors first followed by family and friends. The Internet, although the least trusted source of information, is a common place for people to seek information, along with health organizations, insurance companies and lastly employers, the survey showed.

"Consumers are turning to multiple sources, including their health plans, for healthcare information," said Ken Sperling, CIGNA HealthCare senior vice president. "We believe health plans have a critical role in providing information in simple and easy-to-understand tools that engage consumers and help them make decisions about their healthcare. That’s why CIGNA is investing in online coaching and thenext generation of information tools that will help make it easier for consumers as they interact with the healthcare system."

Address: CIGNA, 900 Cottage Grove Rd. A-118, Bloomfield, CT 06002; (860) 769-2300, www.cigna.com.