Social media makes people unhappy World Happiness Report

"Heavy social media use is linked to declining well-being among young people, particularly teenage girls in English-speaking and Western European countries. Researchers said extensive social media use, especially more than seven hours per day, is associated with lower well-being, with algorithm-driven, image-focused platforms and influencer content cited as key factors."

"The report said most US college students wish social media platforms did not exist. They use them because others are using them, but they would prefer it if no one did."

"Finland once again showed the world the path to happiness even as heavy social media usage eroded personal well-being among young people across the planet. The report found life satisfaction among under-25s in countries including the United States, Canada, Australia and New Zealand has fallen sharply over the past decade."

The 2026 World Happiness Report, based on surveys of approximately 100,000 people across 140 countries, reveals significant declines in life satisfaction among young people under 25 in English-speaking nations including the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. Heavy social media usage, particularly exceeding seven hours daily, correlates with reduced well-being among young people, especially teenage girls in English-speaking and Western European countries. Algorithm-driven, image-focused platforms and influencer content are identified as primary contributing factors. Notably, most US college students report preferring social media platforms did not exist, using them primarily due to peer pressure. Conversely, those using social media for less than one hour daily report higher well-being than non-users. Finland maintains its position as the world's happiest country for the ninth consecutive year.

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