US happiness drops due to rise in solo dining, survey finds

The United States has fallen to its lowest-ever happiness ranking, according to the latest World Happiness Report, largely due to an increase in Americans eating alone, AFP reported. 

Dropping to 24th place, the US has seen a significant decline from its peak of 11th place in 2012. One major contributor to this downturn is the rise in solo dining, which has increased by 53% over the past two decades. 

In 2023, around one in four Americans reported eating all their meals alone the day before the survey. The report highlights that social isolation, particularly during meals, is linked to lower levels of well-being.

The report also notes a troubling trend in the US with “deaths of despair” — which includes suicides and substance abuse — continuing to rise. This stands in contrast to a global decline in these deaths. 

The rise of mental health issues and increased feelings of isolation seem to be contributing to the nation’s declining happiness. 

Experts point out that these factors, alongside the increased incidence of people eating alone, are significantly affecting the overall well-being of Americans.

On the global scale, Finland has maintained its position as the world’s happiest country for the eighth consecutive year, with its strong welfare system, low levels of corruption, and deep connection to nature playing key roles in the country’s high ranking. 

Meanwhile, Costa Rica and Mexico have entered the top 10 happiest countries for the first time, reflecting the growing importance of social support and a strong sense of community. Afghanistan remains at the bottom of the list due to ongoing humanitarian crises.

The happiness rankings are based on individuals’ self-assessed life satisfaction, along with key factors such as GDP per capita, social support, life expectancy, freedom, and generosity.