New Zealand was mostly stable in key international rankings and domestic socio-economic measures. But there are signs of slippage in some areas and not enough progress in others.
Positive psychology focuses on science-based ideas about how to increase your happiness and live a satisfying life. Studies are following how school-based interventions affect students.
We found people who own their home outright were 1.5 times as likely to be highly satisfied with life as renters. But it can be a different story if you have a mortgage – especially if you’re 50-plus.
People who are lonely lead sicker and shorter lives. Just like the guidelines for food and exercise, public health guidelines for social connection can help us all live happier and healthier lives.
Jolanta Burke, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences
After Finland was recently named the happiest country in the world for the sixth year in a row, it was suggested that positivity among the Finnish is related to their expectations.
Finns have good schools, public transport, and the difference between the highest- and lowest-paid is quite small. These are factors in high levels of happiness.