UK Teenagers Face Happiness Recession

A recent study by the Children's Society reveals that British teenagers, particularly 15-year-olds, are experiencing a 'happiness recession', with 25% reporting low life satisfaction, the highest rate in Europe. The report highlights significant disparities, showing that nearly a third of UK girls in this age group are dissatisfied with their lives, compared to an average of 21% across Europe. Factors contributing to this decline include socio-economic challenges, food poverty, and mental health concerns, exacerbated by rising living costs and inadequate access to mental health services. The findings indicate a worrying trend, with life satisfaction levels for UK youth declining more sharply than their peers in other European nations since 2015. Experts are calling for urgent national action to address these issues and improve the well-being of young people. Mark Russell, chief executive of the Children's Society, emphasizes that 'children and young people deserve better' as the situation continues to deteriorate.