A recent global study highlighted in the 2024 edition of the World Happiness Report unveils a concerning trend: the younger generation, including Indian millennial, is encountering a happiness decline reminiscent of a midlife crisis. Factors such as social polarisation, adverse effects of social media, and economic challenges are contributing to this phenomenon. The underlying issues need to be addressed carefully by policymakers and society at large.
For this week’s edition of The Sunday Pioneer, Tanisha Saxena delves into the report’s key findings, analyzes main factors driving youth unhappiness, and explores possible ways to address the core issues.
In recent times, India has witnessed a disturbing trend wherein youngsters are expressing levels of dissatisfaction and disillusionment that are curiously higher than those of their elders. This phenomenon underscores critical societal challenges and prompts the need for examining the factors contributing to this generational disparity.
The World Happiness Report 2024 revealed India’s low ranking at 126 out of 143 countries, trailing nations like Libya, Iraq, and Palestine. Finland topped the list for the seventh consecutive year! The report highlighted that older age correlates with higher life satisfaction in India, with factors such as education level and social caste influencing happiness levels. Additionally, it noted concerns about the well-being of the younger generations in India and the United States, attributed to factors like economic inequality and social media. Former communist countries in Eastern Europe showed significant improvements in well-being, while Western nations like the US experienced declines.
Economic and social strain
Economic pressures weigh heavily on India’s youth, with mounting concerns over unemployment rates, rising inflation, and the increasing cost of education.
“According to the Centre for Monitoring Indian Economy (CMIE) report, in the October-December 2023 quarter, joblessness among those in the age group of 20 to 24 grew to 44.49%, while it stood at 14.33% for the age group of 25-29. These alarming figures underscore the acute challenges faced by the younger demographic in securing meaningful employment opportunities and highlight the urgent need for concerted efforts to address the root causes of youth unemployment,” says economics professor Latha.
The economic landscape in India presents a formidable challenge for the youth, with limited job opportunities and escalating living expenses. Without adequate financial stability, young individuals are left grappling with uncertainty and anxiety about their future.
Sajeev Nair, founder, Vieroots Wellness Solutions, says: “Social polarisation and economic inequality are indeed factors affecting the mental well-being of young people. But among these two factors, there have already been many policy interventions to reduce social polarisation like the various reservations for the socially weaker sections. But to manage the economic inequalities, there needs to be more policy changes. There are tumultuous changes taking place across the technology landscape in the developed nations in fields like artificial intelligence, blockchains, IoT, wearables etc. And these are throwing up numerous opportunities to innovate and create wealth.We need to embrace such changes fast and come on top of it, rather than view them sceptically and be late for the party. A stunning example is how just a Rs 100 investment in bitcoin in 2010 would have created wealth in excess of Rs 3.5 crore now! It was something that many Indian youth could have easily afforded in 2010. Most people can’t believe that such an enormous opportunity passed them by during this last decade. I believe even more of such opportunities will emerge as real assets get tokenized on blockchains, but we as a nation will have to keep an open mind to such innovation in a judicious manner.”
From an anthropological perspective, the relentless pursuit of economic growth and societal expectations for rapid advancement place immense pressure on India’s youth, contributing to a pervasive sense of unhappiness.
Nikhil Kaithwas, an anthropologist, observes:“In this pursuit, the notion of happiness becomes increasingly elusive, as it becomes tethered to transient markers of success and material wealth. However, anthropological studies suggest that true happiness often stems from deeper connections to community, culture, and personal fulfillment, rather than fleeting economic gains. The emphasis on quick wealth accumulation can lead to a cycle of dissatisfaction, as individuals constantly chase external validations of success. Moreover, tying happiness to ephemeral achievements or possessions creates a fragile foundation for well-being, as these sources of satisfaction are inherently unstable. As such, anthropologists argue for a re-evaluation of societal values, placing greater emphasis on holistic well-being and sustainable livelihoods rather than solely economic growth.”
Social media influence
The pervasive influence of social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok has a profound impact on the mental well-being of India’s youth.
According to a study, nearly a quarter of adolescents hold the belief that social media predominantly yields negative impacts. The prevalence of depression stands at 13% among 12-17-year-olds, while anxiety affects 32%, highlighting significant concerns regarding mental health among this demographic.
“Today’s generation often faces more challenges and struggles compared to previous generations, with social media playing a significant role in exacerbating feelings of misery and unhappiness. Unlike older generations, today’s youth are constantly bombarded with images and messages on social media platforms, portraying idealised versions of life that are often unattainable. This leads to feelings of inadequacy, comparison, and FOMO (fear of missing out), contributing to a sense of unhappiness and dissatisfaction with their own lives. Moreover, the pressure to maintain a curated online presence can lead to anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem among young people. The constant need for validation through likes, comments, and followers further perpetuates feelings of worthlessness and discontentment. Additionally, the rise of cyberbullying and online harassment adds another layer of distress to the already fragile mental health of today’s youth. In contrast, older generations did not have to contend with these pressures and had more opportunities for face-to-face social interactions and genuine connections, which contributed to a greater sense of fulfillment and happiness in their lives,” says Dr. Neerja Aggarwal, a psychologist.
Political polarization
India’s political landscape has witnessed heightened polarization in recent years, leading to a divisive societal climate. The younger generation, in particular, grapples with the ramifications of political discord, which can breed feelings of disillusionment and alienation. Kamal Nayan from the political science department in Dayal Singh College, University of Delhi, amplifies: “In comparing today’s political science classrooms to those of a decade ago, a notable shift is evident. Presently, there is a heightened expectation for individuals to hold opinions, which is understandable given the importance of informed civic engagement. However, the prerequisite for forming these opinions is a deep understanding of factual information—a demand that adds significant pressure, particularly on young people. This pressure is compounded by the harsh realities of widespread unemployment, further exacerbating the situation.”
He adds, “In this environment, even students who prefer to keep to themselves may find themselves drawn into discussions probing their views on contentious issues such as reservation policies. It is not uncommon to observe that individuals from privileged backgrounds often hold specific opinions on affirmative action, while those from marginalized groups may have differing perspectives. This underscores the influence of social identity and lived experiences in shaping one’s viewpoints. The pervasive role of social media cannot be overlooked in this context. A mere few minutes of scrolling through various platforms inundates users with a barrage of hate-filled content. The constant exposure to such negativity fuels a cycle of anger and frustration that permeates society, taking a toll on individuals’ mental well-being.”
In essence, the confluence of societal pressures, economic challenges, and the influence of digital platforms has created a landscape where informed opinion formation is both essential and increasingly challenging. Addressing these issues requires a multifaceted approach that promotes critical thinking, fosters empathy, and cultivates a more constructive discourse within society.
Mental health struggles
India’s youth face a growing mental health crisis, marked by high rates of anxiety, depression, and stress-related disorders. Academic pressure, social isolation, and the stigma surrounding mental health contribute to the worsening mental well-being of young individuals.
A recent report by Sapien Labs Center for the Human Brain and Mind revealed that over 50% of Indian youth aged 18-24 are experiencing poor mental health, with their Mental Health Quotient (MHQ) dropping significantly from 28 in 2020 to 20 in 2023. Factors such as smartphone usage, the COVID-19 pandemic, isolation, and fewer social interactions are cited as contributors to this decline. Additionally, findings from Deloitte highlight how mental health issues among employees impact productivity, with 37% reporting concentration issues, 28% experiencing task completion delays, and 27% struggling with decision-making. Despite these alarming trends, there remains a lack of sufficient data due to the stigma surrounding mental health, underscoring the need for more preventive approaches rather than crisis interventions.
“The prevalence of mental health issues among India’s youth underscores the urgent need for increased awareness, de-stigmatization, and accessible mental health services. Prioritizing mental well-being is essential to cultivating a resilient and thriving young population,” says Dr Neeraja, a psychologist from Emoneeds.
Uncertain future
India’s youth stare at an uncertain future characterized by economic volatility, environmental challenges, and geopolitical complexities. The specter of job insecurity, technological disruption, and climate change looms large, creating apprehension about the trajectory of their lives and careers.
Prof Er. Vedakumar Manikonda, Urban & Regional Planner and chairman of Forum for a Better Hyderabad, says: “Climate change presents a significant source of concern and unhappiness among India’s youth, as they grapple with the looming threats it poses to their future. Rising temperatures, erratic weather patterns, and environmental degradation directly impact their lives, from compromised access to clean water and air to diminishing natural resources. Moreover, the uncertainty surrounding climate change exacerbates existing anxieties about job security and economic stability, further fueling apprehension about their prospects. As stewards of the planet’s future, young individuals recognize the urgency of addressing climate change but often feel disheartened by the inadequate response from policymakers and insufficient global action. This sense of disillusionment underscores the imperative for concerted efforts to mitigate climate change and ensure a sustainable and livable future for all.”
Kona Prabhavathi, Senior Scientist, PJTSAU, Hyderabad, observes: “Climate change and pollution significantly impact mental health, leading to increased anxiety, depression, PTSD, eco-anxiety, and physical health issues. Displacement and loss due to climate-related events exacerbate these effects. Mitigating these impacts requires addressing climate change and pollution while providing support systems. Youth are actively involved in this movement, advocating for environmental action and mental health awareness, highlighting the importance of addressing these issues for current and future generations.”
Steps that can help
“To enhance happiness and well-being among the younger generation, three straightforward steps can be implemented. Firstly, youth ought to allocate time away from social media and instead focus on nurturing relationships, which serve as a significant source of joy. Secondly, they should cultivate an attitude of gratitude by appreciating the positive aspects of life more often. Lastly, it is beneficial for young individuals to explore the happiness hormones and adopt natural methods to release them daily,” explains Dr. Rajesh K. Pillania, India’s Happiness Professor at the Management Development Institute, Gurgaon.
How can communities and educational institutions collaborate to foster environments that prioritise mental well-being and support young people in navigating the challenges outlined in the World Happiness Report?
Sajeev Nair from Vieroots suggests: “Even while taking the World Happiness Report with all due seriousness, we should be aware of the several anomalies there. For instance, both Israel and Palestine rank way above India, and I think Russia and Ukraine too. This just cannot be true in a holistic way, as these are countries that are at war now, with its unavoidable casualties and mental/physical trauma in the tens of thousands, not to say anything about the economic uncertainties due to destroyed cities, homes, factories and livelihoods. In contrast, India is an oasis of peace, even though our per capita income and our health standards are still way down. We can be quite confident that we can improve on where we lag, as we have this essential stability. We also have the advantage of being the home of both Ayurveda and Yoga, two of the hottest ancient systems for wellbeing, which are now being proactively researched in Western universities. As I said earlier, our workplaces should be our first targets to improve the health, wellbeing, and happiness of our young people. Even better, this culture of happiness and wellbeing should begin from our schools and colleges, and corporate companies can contribute to this by supporting our educational institutions by funds and expertise as a part of their CSR programs.”
To combat this unhappiness, the young generation can focus on cultivating resilience and self-care practices. Adding more to the list of solutions, Dr. Gorav Gupta, psychiatrist and co- founder of Emoneeds, says: “Prioritising mental and emotional well-being through activities such as mindfulness, exercise, and fostering meaningful connections can remarkably improve overall happiness. Setting realistic goals and boundaries, while also embracing failures as opportunities for growth, can alleviate the pressure to constantly achieve. Engaging in hobbies and passions outside of work or academics can provide a sense of fulfillment and balance. Importantly, by advocating for improved mental health resources and challenging unrealistic societal expectations, both Generation Z and Millennials can contribute to a healthier collective mindset. Ultimately, it is crucial for individuals to recognise when they need help and to seek it without shame or hesitation. Professional intervention can provide invaluable tools and strategies for managing mental health issues and fostering a sense of well-being.”
In conclusion, addressing the discontent among India’s younger generation demands a holistic approach that encompasses economic reforms to enhance job prospects and financial stability, initiatives to promote digital well-being and civic engagement, efforts to foster inclusive political discourse, investments in mental health awareness and support services, and strategies to navigate the uncertainties of the future.
