In a world of technological advancement, increased connectivity, and economic growth, one would expect young people to be happier than ever. Yet, paradoxically, happiness among young adults in English-speaking countries is on the decline. While older generations maintain or even improve their well-being, young adults report the lowest levels of happiness. This unsettling trend raises an important question: why are young people so unhappy?
A groundbreaking study published by the National Bureau of Economic Research offers insights into this crisis. Researchers Jean Twenge and David Blanchflower analyzed eleven studies across six countries—Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Their findings challenge the long-held belief that happiness follows a predictable curve over a lifetime.
The Vanishing U-Curve of Happiness
For decades, psychologists have described happiness as following a U-shaped curve: we start life relatively happy, experience a dip in midlife (the so-called “midlife crisis”), and then see happiness levels increase as we age. However, this new study disrupts that notion. Instead of dipping and then rising, happiness now simply increases with age. Young adults report the lowest well-being, while older adults experience the highest levels of life satisfaction.
In the United States, for example, life satisfaction among young adults has dropped sharply since 2016, while older adults’ satisfaction has remained stable or even improved. The same pattern is evident in the other five countries studied. Crucially, this downward trend began well before the COVID-19 pandemic, indicating that deeper societal and cultural shifts are at play.
The Mental Health Connection
The decline in happiness among young people is not occurring in isolation; it mirrors a troubling rise in mental health issues. Across all six countries, rates of anxiety, depression, and self-harm among young people have surged.
In Australia, mental disorders among young people have increased by 40% for men and 60% for women in just over a decade. The UK has witnessed a 25% jump in antidepressant prescriptions between 2015 and 2019. Young women, in particular, are bearing the brunt of this crisis. Nearly 46% of Australian women aged 16-24 reported experiencing mental illness between 2020 and 2022—up from 30% in 2007.
These statistics align closely with the decline in happiness, raising urgent questions about the underlying causes of this crisis.
What’s Behind the Decline in Happiness?
Researchers have identified several factors contributing to the decline in happiness among young adults:
1. The Social Media Factor
One of the most significant contributors is the rise of social media and smartphones. The happiness downturn began around 2012-2013—coinciding with the widespread adoption of smartphones and social media platforms. While technology has enhanced connectivity, it has also reduced face-to-face interactions, which are crucial for mental health.
The curated perfection of social media feeds fosters unrealistic comparisons, leading to lower self-esteem and heightened anxiety. Young adults often measure their lives against the idealized images presented online, exacerbating feelings of inadequacy.
2. Economic Instability
Economic pressures weigh heavily on young people today. Rising housing costs, student debt, and an uncertain job market contribute to financial insecurity, which directly impacts mental well-being. Unlike older generations who may have established financial stability, young adults navigate an increasingly unpredictable economic landscape.
The COVID-19 pandemic intensified these issues, creating additional job losses and uncertainty. While older adults may have savings and job security, younger people often find themselves in precarious employment situations, further eroding their happiness.
3. Global Disruptions
Economic shocks like the Great Recession, the COVID-19 pandemic, and global inflation have disproportionately affected younger generations. Younger adults face instability in job markets, education, and housing—making it harder to plan for the future and maintain well-being.
Political instability, climate change, and ongoing global conflicts also contribute to a pervasive sense of uncertainty and fear for the future among young people.
4. Declining Community and Connection
Young adults are less likely to engage in community activities, religious practices, or civic participation than previous generations. These activities have traditionally provided a sense of belonging and support, crucial for maintaining happiness.
A sense of community helps individuals feel valued and connected, mitigating feelings of isolation and loneliness. The decline in community engagement leaves young people feeling isolated, contributing to lower happiness levels.
5. Educational Pressures
Educational demands and the pressure to perform academically and professionally have also played a significant role. Young people are expected to excel in school, secure high-paying jobs, and achieve societal standards of success, all while navigating personal growth and social pressures.
The constant pressure to succeed academically can lead to stress, burnout, and a diminished sense of well-being.
6. Environmental Concerns
Climate change and environmental degradation are pressing concerns for many young people. Awareness of environmental issues and fears about the planet’s future contribute to anxiety and helplessness, further impacting happiness.
Young people often express frustration about the lack of meaningful action from older generations and governments to address climate change, which heightens their sense of disillusionment.
Can We Reverse This Trend?
Despite the bleak picture painted by the study, there are steps society can take to address this crisis:
1. Promoting Healthy Tech Use
Encouraging mindful social media use and promoting face-to-face interactions can help mitigate the negative effects of digital culture. Educational programs that teach digital literacy and the importance of real-life social interactions could be beneficial.
Parents and educators can foster healthy tech habits by setting boundaries on screen time and encouraging offline activities.
2. Expanding Mental Health Resources
Investing in accessible, youth-centered mental health care is crucial. Increasing funding for mental health services, providing school-based mental health programs, and reducing the stigma associated with seeking help can improve well-being.
Young people need access to counseling services, mental health education, and support systems that address their specific challenges.
3. Addressing Economic Inequality
Policies that alleviate financial burdens, such as affordable housing, student debt relief, and job market reforms, could improve long-term well-being. Governments should consider incentives for companies to hire young workers and invest in sectors that offer stable job prospects.
Creating programs that support financial literacy and career planning can also help young adults manage economic uncertainty.
4. Encouraging Meaningful Connection
Creating spaces for young people to engage in community-building activities, such as volunteering, hobby groups, and local events, can foster a sense of purpose and belonging.
Schools and workplaces can play a role by promoting team-building activities and community involvement initiatives.
5. Environmental Action
Engaging young people in environmental initiatives and decision-making processes can give them a sense of agency and hope for the future. Governments and organizations should involve youth in climate action plans and provide platforms for their voices to be heard.
Environmental education programs can empower young people to take action and reduce eco-anxiety.
6. Educational Reforms
Reducing academic pressure and promoting a more balanced approach to education can enhance young people’s well-being. Schools should focus on holistic education, incorporating life skills, mental health awareness, and career counseling.
Providing flexibility in educational pathways and recognizing different forms of success can alleviate stress among students.
A Wake-Up Call for Society
The flattening of the traditional happiness curve and the unhappiness crisis among young adults are significant societal shifts. This is not a transient issue; it reflects profound changes in how happiness is experienced across age groups.
For parents, educators, policymakers, and society at large, the message is clear: we must act now to support young people’s well-being. The well-being of future generations depends on addressing the factors driving this decline in happiness today
