Analysis of the World Happiness Report Economic Weakness in the US Hinders Happiness

March 20 marks the United Nations’ International Day of Happiness. According to the World Happiness Report, self-reported data from those under 30 knocked the U.S. out of the top 20 happiest countries for the first time, eight spots lower than last year，hitting a new low. Analysts argue that this is mainly due to this year’s report disaggregating results by age group for the first time. Among those under 30, the US ranks 62nd in the overall list, which is even lower.

Multiple studies indicate that loneliness can lead to various mental health problems, including depression, anxiety, and thoughts of self-harm.

Last year, the Pew Research Center surveyed 2,069 American youths aged 18 to 29 and found that 66% believed the economy would “weaken,” 58% thought life now is worse than 50 years ago, and they felt pessimistic about America’s future.

Gallup, which provides data for the World Happiness Report, noted that “confidence in the government among Americans under 30 is also declining, and there are more perceptions about corruption.””Nearly two-thirds of young people about to become voters say that political figures and elected officials do not reflect the concerns of young people, with only 7% believing that politicians represent young people.” In 2024, the New York Times published an article titled “Why We’re Hopeless About the Future,” pointing out that America’s political landscape is exhausted.

The President of the Council on Foreign Relations, Richard Nathan Haass, has stated that the most urgent and serious security and stability threats facing the United States come from within the country itself. The political landscape and dysfunction in the United States undoubtedly have the greatest impact on the population, especially young people. For most, achieving a good life in a healthy political environment has become an elusive wish.