Young people today are experiencing unprecedented levels of stress, depression, and unhappiness, a trend that is shifting the traditional pattern of happiness. According to David Blanchflower, a professor of economics, research shows that young adults (ages 18-25) report being unhappier than people in their 40s and 50s.
The traditional U-shaped happiness curve, which suggests that happiness rises initially to a peak around age 30 and then declines into midlife before rising again after age 70, is no longer applicable. Blanchflower’s research shows that happiness starts off low in young adulthood and increases with age.
Experts agree that social media has a negative impact on youth happiness. Amber Wimsatt Childs, a clinical psychologist, notes that social media amplifies concerns and comparison among peers, leading to feelings of despair and unhappiness.
To experience more happiness, young adults can focus on:
* Deciding what their values are and structuring their behaviors around them
* Becoming aware of unhelpful comparisons and using comparison for their benefit
* Reducing stress levels by prioritizing sleep hygiene, exercise, and avoiding excessive social media use
Parents and loved ones of young adults should also educate themselves on the challenges faced by those in their late teens and early 20s. Validating young adults when they express mental health struggles and engaging in healthy activities with them can be helpful. Most importantly, seeking professional support from a therapist is crucial.
Source: https://www.cnbc.com/2024/07/23/new-research-young-people-are-reshaping-the-happiness-curve.html