Social media makes people unhappy — World Happiness Report

By Joshua Olomu

The 2026 World Happiness Report has indicated that people who are more inclined to use social media seem to be less satisfied with their lives.

The World Happiness Report which is released annually as part of International Day of Happiness celebrated on March 20 ranks countries based on how people rate their lives and well-being.

Nordic nations dominate the top rankings, while the 2026 report specifically highlights concerns regarding youth happiness linked to high social media use, particularly in English-speaking countries.

The 2026 report found that life satisfaction among those under 25, especially in English-speaking and Western European countries, has fallen sharply over the past decade.

According to the report, heavy social media usage has eroded personal well-being among young people across the world.

The study, based on surveys of around 100,000 people across 140 countries, 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 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” the report said.

The findings came as governments across the world increasingly consider restrictions on social media use by minors.

The annual happiness report is published by the University of Oxford’s Wellbeing Research Centre in partnership with Gallup and the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network.

Rankings reflect three-year averages and consider factors such as GDP per capita, social support, life expectancy, freedom, generosity and perceptions of corruption.

The 2026 World Happiness Report ranked Finland the top happiest country in the world followed by Nordic neighbors Iceland, Denmark, Sweden, and Norway.

The report finds that high social media use is associated with lower well-being, though moderate use may not be.

Under top five shift, Costa Rica broke into the top 5, signaling a shift in the traditional top rankings.

It, however, noted that rankings were based on the Gallup World Poll’s 3-year average of life evaluations (Cantril Ladder) across more than 140 countries.

It noted that while top rankings remained stable, significant shifts in well-being were occurring within regions, with rising satisfaction in some central European countries and decreases elsewhere.

However, Mauritius ranks the number one in Africa. The country ranks as the 73rd-happiest country globally, reflecting its strong social support, healthy life expectancy, and economic stability.

The island nation balances a robust tourism sector with a growing finance industry, providing residents with opportunities and a high quality of life.

It followed by Libya, which ranks 81st globally in happiness, emerging as one of Africa’s happier nations in spite of years of political turmoil.

Social support networks remain strong, and residents value freedom to make life choices where possible. GDP per capita is variable, but community and generosity help offset economic uncertainty.

Algeria ranks 83rd globally, reflecting a society with strong family bonds and social cohesion. While economic growth has been uneven, residents benefit from social services and healthcare that support life expectancy.

Mozambique is among top 10, ranks 93rd globally among the happiest countries, thanks to resilient communities and strong cultural traditions. Life expectancy has improved, and social support networks help residents weather economic and environmental challenges.

Also, Gabon, Cote d’ivoire, Cameron, Niger and Tunisia made it to the top 10.

Tunisia ranks 105th globally, navigating economic pressures and political transitions while maintaining strong social support networks. Life expectancy is relatively high, and access to healthcare remains a priority for its citizens.

Nigeria stands at 106th in the report, indicating a steady slip from 105 in 2025 and 102 in 2024.

According to the UN, IDH is a day to be happy, of course! Happiness is a fundamental human goal.