While youths today enjoy a higher standard of living compared to their parents / elders, why do they seem less happy?

The sense of achievement is not easily available as most resources were already provided by parents.

Social media - that constant FOMO and comparison and feeling like life is not cool/glam/rich enough

Looking through the comments so far, it's true that social media and the eventual comparisons probably led to the current youths feeling less happy in general.

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Thinking back, our parents has less to compare against when they were younger, at the most it was their peers and neighbours and relatives whenever they meet up at talks about their life. And throughout the social media boom that happened since the start of the century, everyone is sharing their life online and it can't be helped that it leads to some comparison, from people of different walks of life.

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Well at least that's how i feel :)

1. Increased Pressure to Succeed:

• Academic and Career Pressure: Young people face high expectations in education and career achievement, leading to anxiety and stress. The rise of "hustle culture" and the competitive job market place immense pressure on youths to outperform, leaving little room for relaxation or contentment.
• Social Comparison: Social media platforms foster constant comparisons with peers, influencers, and even celebrities. Youths see idealized lifestyles online, leading to feelings of inadequacy or dissatisfaction with their own lives, even if they are relatively comfortable.

2. Financial Anxiety:

• Cost of Living: Despite higher standards of living, the cost of essential expenses like housing, healthcare, and education has risen significantly. Many young adults find it difficult to afford these necessities, especially in cities with high living costs. This can contribute to financial stress, even if they earn more than previous generations.
• Economic Uncertainty: Youths today face greater economic uncertainty, with less job security and rising inflation. Unlike their parents, who may have benefited from more stable career paths, today's youths often face precarious work environments like gig economy jobs or short-term contracts, adding to their financial insecurity.

3. Mental Health Issues:

• Rise in Mental Health Disorders: Mental health challenges, such as anxiety, depression, and loneliness, have become more prevalent among young people. Factors like the 24/7 connectivity of social media, societal pressures, and the breakdown of traditional social structures contribute to this mental health crisis. Unlike earlier generations, today’s youth are more likely to seek help for these issues, which may highlight the growing awareness of these problems.
• Lack of Purpose and Fulfillment: Youths often struggle with finding meaning or purpose, particularly in a world where traditional milestones like marriage, homeownership, and stable careers are increasingly delayed. The pressure to "find one's passion" or create a meaningful life adds to feelings of dissatisfaction.

4. Climate and Global Issues:

• Environmental Concerns: Many youths express deep concerns about climate change and environmental degradation. The perception of an uncertain future due to global warming or political instability can lead to feelings of hopelessness or despair.
• Information Overload: The internet and constant access to global news often expose youths to negative events worldwide, from natural disasters to political turmoil. This overwhelming exposure can lead to anxiety and feelings of helplessness about global issues beyond their control.

5. Decline of Community and Social Connection:

• Social Isolation: Despite being more connected digitally, many young people report feeling socially isolated. The rise of individualism and a decrease in face-to-face interactions weaken traditional community bonds that once provided social support and a sense of belonging.
• Delayed Milestones: Traditional life milestones, such as buying a home, getting married, or starting a family, are often delayed or seen as unattainable for many youths today. This can lead to a feeling of stagnation or lack of progress in life, which impacts overall happiness.

6. Erosion of Work-Life Balance:

• Technology and Work: The lines between work and personal life have blurred, particularly with remote work and the expectation to be "always on." This erosion of work-life boundaries can lead to burnout and decreased life satisfaction, even if one's material wealth has improved.