Are you struggling to be happy? Many of us are.
The latest World Happiness Report, released by the United Nations in March, surveyed people in 143 countries and regions and saw Hong Kong drop to 86th from 82nd in the rankings.
Anxiety and depression affect more of us in this post-pandemic era, and there are other factors, experts say.
“Increased stress from modern life, societal pressures and the impact of technology on relationships play a part,” says Hong Kong-based psychologist Dr Adrian Low. “Meanwhile, the fast-paced, often superficial nature of contemporary life can lead to feelings of isolation and disconnection, making it harder for people to find lasting happiness.”
Happiness is more than an emotion, Low adds – it is a state of contentment and fulfilment, and is linked to a sense of purpose, connection and overall well-being.
How we live is important to how we feel. In 1960, not long before his death, Swiss psychoanalyst Carl Jung shared five “pillars” that he believed could help support a happy life. We outline them below, with expert tips on how to achieve them.
