Why Are Young People Less Happy? The Surprising Truth Behind Happiness Trends

The Age of Peak Happiness

Recent studies indicate that 45 years old is now considered the age of peak happiness. A striking 77% of people report feeling more content after hitting 40. They claim to care less about others' opinions and achieve a sense of self-actualization.

Insights from the UN

The UN's research, covering countries like the UK, Ireland, US, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, suggests that happiness has shifted from a U-shaped curve to a more consistent upward trend. However, this trend does not apply uniformly, particularly among the youth.

The Crisis Among Young People

The economist David Blanchflower highlights a crisis in wellbeing among the young, noting increased isolation, reduced social interactions, and a notable rise in mental health issues. Over 500,000 young individuals are currently out of work due to mental health challenges, a number that has nearly doubled since 2012.

Factors Contributing to Declining Happiness

While the pandemic has impacted youth negatively, Blanchflower argues that the decline in happiness predates COVID-19. Factors such as social media, cyberbullying, and financial instability—including student debt and stagnant wages—are significant contributors to the struggles faced by younger generations.

Economic Disparities and Challenges

Young people today are confronted with harder living standards and a political narrative that often blames them for their struggles. The wealth transfer occurring within generational lines tends to favor those around 45, creating a disparity in opportunities for younger individuals.

Collective Action as a Path to Sanity

In light of these challenges, many young people are finding solace in collective organization. However, this often leads them to confront larger issues like the climate crisis, leaving them in a similar position of struggle.

The Nature of Happiness

The question remains: is the happiness experienced by those over 40 genuine, or is it a product of denial? Regardless, the capacity for joy exists across all age groups, with different circumstances affecting how it is experienced.