It is interesting to know that mental health is intricately linked with physical health. People with a high level of happiness live longer. It has been observed that anxiety and depression can slow down the rate at which individuals' wounds heal. Happiness and satisfaction are becoming vital for national strategic initiatives, public health and policy matters, as well as for policymakers. Traditionally, happiness peaks in young adults and then decreases as people age, bottoming out around the age of 50, before increasing again after retirement. A new study reveals that this trend has now reversed. Significant statistical evidence suggests that well-being declines with age until middle age, and then improves again later in life. Researchers have now discovered that unhappiness is most important among individuals in the 18-25 age group. The mental health of young people has deteriorated over the years. It is also important to note that the influence of work on happiness has also decreased. Earlier, the young in employment were happier than those who were unemployed; however, that gap has also shrunk in recent years.
This is a U-shaped pattern that is visible across various well-being metrics, including life satisfaction and happiness. New research reveals that this traditional U-shape is the reverse mirror image of the U and is instead referred to as the hump-shaped ill-being curve. The curve of ill-being is associated with worries, stress and depression. Research evidence shows a decline in the well-being of youth across Australia, New Zealand, the UK, the USA and 167 other countries. The lack of happiness leads to mental health deterioration, absenteeism, learning disorders and reduced participation in the labour market, and increases the usage of substances.
According to the latest research, only one-quarter of workers worldwide are satisfied with their work. Improving well-being can help the economy grow by meeting societal expectations, addressing societal pressure and navigating more challenging labour market conditions. Perceptions of digital technology, social media influence and relationships with others contribute to greater dissatisfaction. There is evidence to suggest that ill-being among young people is directly related to the use of the internet and smartphones. The increased use of social media leads to feelings of comparison and loneliness among individuals aged 12 to 25. Research has also proved that extensive use of social media is linked to depression.
In regions of North America, Europe, South Asia, the Middle East and North Africa, happiness has declined since 2006. Nowadays, happiness does not peak till 50 years of age. Generally, young adults who contribute to a country's economic growth tend to report lower levels of life satisfaction, physical health, purpose and relationships. Ill-being and poor mental health also come with a cost of $1 trillion annual loss of productivity.
According to the World Economic Forum's (WEF) research report, improvements in workplace well-being could contribute to a $11.7 trillion increase in the global economy. Over the years, well-being has taken a back seat to other priorities. World stakeholders need to address the various factors that affect happiness, including work dynamics, mental health pressures, job market volatility, social isolation and the impact of social media. Now the world needs to take notice, and leaders must put people’s health and well-being at the core of their strategic direction, as it will improve innovation, resilience and business performance.
The generational shifts in happiness are clear indicators of societal shifts that need to be addressed to ensure happiness among people and restore a sense of purpose and belonging across humanity. Though the exact cause of unhappiness needs much research, leaders must take notice that 12 billion work days are lost each year due to depression and anxiety. It is time for the corporate world to invest in employee well-being initiatives to drive growth, enhance productivity and foster overall happiness.
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