Why Are Young People Facing a Crisis of Happiness?

We often say, “Youth is the best time of life!” But does the current reality match this saying? Is that vibrancy of the past still present among young people today?

Shahriar, a 22-year-old university student, lies in bed at night staring at the ceiling, letting out a sigh. He thinks, “When my parents were my age, they had jobs and were pursuing their dreams. But me? Every day I look towards an uncertain future.“

The excitement and optimism expected among youth—does it really persist in today’s world? Multiple studies show that happiness and mental stability among young people are declining, with technology, economic pressure, and social changes being key contributors.

A winter afternoon. Sitting at the TSC of Dhaka University, I overhear a group of young men and women at the next table talking among themselves—“Life feels stuck, like something is wrong!” The tone of despair in their voices is clear. One of them says, “When our parents were our age, they were achieving so much, but we feel like we’re just fighting to survive!” The others agree.

A recent study suggests that the decrease in happiness among young people is not limited to Bangladesh, but is a global trend. A survey by the National Bureau of Economic Research found that people aged 18-24 are much more depressed, anxious, and lonely than previous generations. Conducted in the US, Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, and the UK, the research raises major concerns regarding young people’s mental well-being.

The U-Shaped Curve of Happiness: No Longer Applies!

It is generally thought that happiness in life follows a U-shaped curve (Happiness Curve)—meaning, people are happiest during childhood and youth, experience some frustration during middle age, and then rediscover happiness in their later years.

But recent research suggests that this traditional pattern is breaking down! Today’s young generation is starting from a lower happiness point than ever before.

So why is there a growing lack of happiness among young people?

Reasons for the Happiness Crisis Among Young People

Researchers have identified several factors, the most significant being the impact of technology and social media.

1. Excessive Use of Social Media and Smartphones

One of the main causes of mental health issues among youth is excessive use of social media.

• Since 2012, the global rate of depression among teens and young people has increased by 60% (Journal of Abnormal Psychology).
• A Pew Research Center survey conducted in 2023 found that 73% of 18-24 year-olds believe social media is harmful to their mental health.
• 54% of young people spend an average of more than 4 hours per day on social media, leading to increased loneliness and lack of confidence.
• According to the Global Wellbeing Report 2022, those who use social media for more than 3 hours a day have a 2.5 times higher risk of depression.

The tendency among young people to compare their lives with the curated posts of others has increased, creating frustration and a crisis of self-confidence.

2. Financial Pressure and an Uncertain Future

Another major reason for the lack of happiness among young people is economic pressure and uncertainty about the future.

• The unemployment rate in Bangladesh is 10.6% (ILO, 2023), creating high anxiety among youth.
• Globally, student debt is weighing heavily on young shoulders. In the US alone, student loan debt surpassed $1.77 trillion in 2023 (Federal Reserve).
• The cost of living keeps rising—urban living expenses in Bangladesh have increased by 45% over the past decade (BBS, 2023).
• According to the World Bank, by 2030, 47% of jobs worldwide may be affected by automation.

Youth are struggling to find jobs, lack sufficient opportunities to start businesses, while costs and responsibilities continue to rise.

3. Global Crises and Impact of the Pandemic

• The COVID-19 pandemic has severely disrupted young people’s education, jobs, and social lives.
• After the pandemic, 72% of young people say they are more anxious than before (Global Youth Report, 2022).
• Online education reduced direct social interactions among friends, which has negatively impacted youth mental health.

How Can Young People Find the Path to Happiness?

1. Digital Detox and Create Balance

• Try to have at least 2-3 hours of smartphone-free time each day.
• Take one day a week for “digital fasting”—completely disconnect from social media.
• Stay away from mobile screens during dinner, and spend direct time with family or friends.

2. Increase Real-Life Connections

• Spend direct, in-person time with family and friends.
• Get involved in local community or volunteer work.
• Regularly participate in outdoor activities such as sports, walking, or traveling.

3. Prioritize Mental Health

• Ensure adequate sleep, exercise, and a healthy diet.
• Practice meditation and yoga to reduce stress.
• Seek help from mental health professionals if needed.

4. Plan for Career and Economic Independence

• Explore freelancing, starting a startup, or entrepreneurship.
• Move forward step by step according to your future plans.
• Enroll in online courses and training to develop new skills.

Conclusion

If our youth become hopeless, the development of the future nation will be hindered. Protecting the mental health of young people while keeping up with technological, economic, and social changes is now more important than ever.

Can we use AI and technology for the welfare of humanity? What do you think? Don’t forget to share your opinion!