The World Is Literally Getting Happier

A new global survey reveals that people worldwide are experiencing fewer negative emotions, marking a return to pre-pandemic emotional well-being.

“People are cheering up,” researchers note, as indicators like stress, worry, anger, and sadness fall from their recent highs and more respondents report feeling respected and enjoying their day.

Across more than 140 countries, nearly 90% of people reported feeling respected, and over 70% said they laughed or had a good time. Enjoyment levels continue to rise in several regions, with places like Denmark reporting some of the highest shares of people experiencing daily positive emotions, highlighting an encouraging global trend toward improved emotional health.