Contrary to previous research, young adults today report the highest levels of despair, according to a study across 44 countries. In the U.S., the percentage of 18-24-year-olds experiencing poor mental health every day more than doubled for men (25% to 66%) and nearly tripled for women (32% to 93%) since the 1990s. This reverses the established “U-shaped” pattern, where unhappiness peaks in midlife then declines. Possible drivers include heavy smartphone use and declining mental health benefits from employment, though no single factor fully explains the shift. Researchers urge policymakers to prioritize addressing rising youth despair as a key well-being issue. (Story URL)
PHONE TOPIC: What has been the happiest stretch of your life so far?