In the latest World Happiness Report, it’s revealed that young Americans are experiencing a notable dip in happiness. The United States, traditionally seen as a beacon of prosperity and joy, has slipped to the 23rd position globally, marking its first exit from the top 20. This decline is significantly attributed to the under-30 demographic, which, when solely considered, plunges the country to an alarming 62nd in happiness rankings.
As a young adult myself, this revelation hardly comes as a surprise. The past few years, spanning from 2021 to 2023, have been a rollercoaster of monumental life shifts, driven by the pandemic, political upheaval, and a lingering economic unease. It’s safe to say, we’re far from okay.
The criteria for happiness, as outlined by the report, include GDP per capita, social support, healthy life expectancy, freedom, generosity, and levels of corruption. Despite these broad measures, I can pinpoint several reasons why my peers and I are feeling more despondent than older generations in the U.S.
The COVID-19 pandemic struck a significant blow to our collective well-being, especially as many of us were on the cusp of adulthood. The stark contrast between life pre and post-pandemic has been jarring. Many young adults graduated high school or college, or embarked on their careers amidst the chaos, facing the harsh realities of disease, isolation, and governmental shortcomings head-on. The pandemic’s death toll, which has exceeded 1.2 million in the U.S. since the CDC began its count in 2020, alongside its economic repercussions, has only added to the strain. An analysis by USA TODAY highlighted a surge in mental health-related prescriptions, indicating a growing tide of psychological distress.
Financial pressures have intensified, with the cost of groceries, the resumption of student loan payments, and soaring rent and home prices exacerbating the situation. These economic challenges have coincided with pivotal moments of our lives, further amplifying our distress.
Moreover, the pandemic has seen a rise in youth suicide and homicide rates, casting a long shadow over our emotional well-being. The collective experience of navigating these tumultuous times, particularly during such a formative phase of life, has been uniquely challenging.
Political and social issues have also played a part in our discontent. The loss of nationwide abortion rights and the surge in political polarization have left many feeling disillusioned and anxious about the future. Social media, with its dual propensity for doomscrolling and amplifying consumer culture, has further impacted our mental health, despite its role in connecting us with others.
Interestingly, when the happiness rankings focus solely on Americans over 60, the U.S. stands at a much more enviable 10th place. This discrepancy suggests that older generations may be deriving more satisfaction from life, possibly due to financial security, retirement prospects, or personal relationships. However, it’s clear that the younger generation is grappling with a unique set of challenges that are impacting our happiness.
As we continue to navigate these complex times, it’s evident that the path to happiness is fraught with obstacles for young Americans. While the rest of the population may find reasons to smile, we’re still searching for our own, hoping for brighter days ahead.