A surprising phenomenon is emerging among young adults in English-speaking nations. Despite residing in a time characterized by remarkable technological progress, enhanced connectivity, and overall economic prosperity, their levels of happiness are on the decline. In contrast, their parents and grandparents appear to be either sustaining or even enhancing their well-being.

A significant study released by the National Bureau of Economic Research has illuminated this concerning trend. 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 results call into question long-standing assumptions regarding the relationship between age and happiness.

The vanishing U-curve of happiness

For many years, psychologists maintained that happiness adhered to a consistent U-shaped trajectory: individuals typically begin their lives with a sense of happiness, encounter a decline during midlife—often termed a "midlife crisis"—and subsequently experience a resurgence of happiness in their later years. However, recent research indicates that this pattern may no longer hold. Instead, it appears that happiness consistently rises with age, with young adults indicating the lowest levels of well-being, while older adults report the highest.

This change is not merely based on personal accounts; it is supported by empirical evidence. In the United States, for instance, the level of life satisfaction among young adults has significantly declined since 2016, whereas the satisfaction levels of older adults have remained consistent. Similar trends are observed in other nations as well. The research indicates that the decline in happiness among the youth started long before the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, suggesting that more profound societal and cultural transformations are occurring.

The mental health connection

The decreasing levels of happiness among young adults are not occurring in a vacuum; they correspond with concerning rises in mental health challenges. In all six countries examined, there has been a notable escalation in the prevalence of anxiety, depression, and self-harm among the youth.

In Australia, the incidence of mental disorders among young men has risen by 40%, while for young women, the increase is even more pronounced at 60% over the past decade. Similarly, in the UK, the volume of antidepressant prescriptions issued surged by 25% from 2015 to 2019.

Young women, especially, seem to be significantly affected by this crisis. In Australia, almost half (46%) of women aged 16-24 indicated that they faced mental health issues from 2020 to 2022, an increase from 30% in 2007. Comparable trends are being observed in other countries, prompting critical inquiries into the factors contributing to this phenomenon.

What’s behind the decline in happiness?

While a conclusive reason for the increasing discontent among young adults remains elusive, researchers have identified several potential contributing factors:

The Impact of Social Media: The trend of declining happiness among youth seems to have emerged around 2012-2013, coinciding with the widespread use of smartphones and social media platforms. Research suggests that the rise in screen time has led to fewer in-person interactions, which are crucial for mental health. Furthermore, the idealized images presented on social media can foster unrealistic comparisons, resulting in diminished self-esteem and heightened anxiety.

Economic Pressures: Contemporary young adults are facing rising housing costs, significant student loan debt, and an unpredictable job market. This financial instability has been linked to a decrease in overall well-being.

Global Crises: Economic upheavals such as the Great Recession, the COVID-19 pandemic, and increasing inflation have disproportionately impacted younger generations. Unlike older adults, who may have already established financial and social security, young people are navigating a more unstable landscape.

Reduced Community Involvement: Compared to previous generations, today’s young adults are less likely to participate in religious, civic, or local community activities, which are vital for cultivating a sense of belonging and support.

Can we reverse this trend?

The findings present a troubling scenario, yet they also provide a chance to reconsider how society can enhance the well-being of young individuals. Possible approaches include:

Promoting Healthy Technology Usage: Advocating for mindful engagement with social media and encouraging increased face-to-face interactions may alleviate the adverse impacts of digital culture.  

Expanding Mental Health Services: It is essential to invest in accessible mental health care tailored for youth to effectively address this crisis.  

Tackling Economic Disparities: Implementing policies that alleviate the financial challenges faced by young adults—such as affordable housing initiatives and student debt relief—could significantly enhance their long-term well-being.  

Fostering Meaningful Connections: Establishing more opportunities for young people to participate in community-building activities, such as volunteering and interest-based groups, may help restore their sense of purpose and belonging.

A wake-up call for society

The conventional happiness curve has levelled off, and young adults are facing challenges that earlier generations did not encounter. This phenomenon is not merely temporary; it represents a profound change in the way happiness is perceived among various age demographics.

For parents, educators, and policymakers, the implication is unmistakable: we must take notice. To ensure that future generations not only enjoy longer lives but also experience fulfilment and joy, it is imperative to tackle the underlying issues contributing to this decline at present.

The lingering question is—will we heed this call?

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