Despite external well-being, such as having a good job, income, and striving to achieve personal goals, Generation Z faces various difficulties. New data obtained in the USA reflects this trend: the share of young people who rate their lives positively has decreased compared to previous periods, while the level of satisfaction among older people has increased.
According to data from the American research institute Gallup, only 44% of youth aged 18 to 29 in the USA consider their lives good and fall into the 'thriving' category. This figure dropped from 64% in 2010, representing a decrease of 20 percentage points over 16 years. In 2020, during the COVID pandemic, this percentage fell further to 39%, but by 2023, it improved to 51%, after which another decline was observed.
Mental health issues are also a concern. The report indicates that 27% of youth aged 18 to 29 in the USA either struggle with depression or are undergoing treatment for it. This figure increased by 11 percentage points compared to 2019. Furthermore, only 64% of young people reported feeling joyful the day before, and only 28% stated they felt active and productive daily over the past week.
In contrast to Gen Z, older people in the USA demonstrate a higher level of life satisfaction. Among people aged 65 and older, 53% fall into the 'thriving' category. This figure rose from 38% in 2008, reaching a record level of satisfaction in this age group.
These statistics clearly illustrate the difference between the two generations: while satisfaction is growing among older age groups, young people are becoming less optimistic about their future. Although these figures themselves do not explain the reasons for this decline, they emphasize the need to pay attention to the happiness and mental health of Generation Z.