It is World Happiness Day! Well if you are reading this on the 20th March it is. Otherwise, you just missed it.
That means the release of a 260 page report for everyone to read.
Wait a second………that won’t make anyone happy!
But never fear, that is why we created AI – to sift through these reports and robotically tell us how to feel.
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Each year, the World Happiness Report offers a snapshot of global wellbeing—who’s thriving, who’s struggling, and what makes the difference. The 2025 report reveals some fascinating insights, with both encouraging and concerning trends:
Key Takeaways from the 2025 World Happiness Report
- People are kinder than we think – When researchers dropped wallets in public places, the actual return rate was much higher than expected, suggesting we underestimate the kindness of others.
- Benevolence remains high – Acts of kindness (helping strangers, donating, and volunteering) are still 10% higher than pre-pandemic levels.
- Sharing meals boosts happiness – People who frequently share meals with others report higher life satisfaction and lower loneliness.
- Happiness inequality is stabilizing – While happiness varies within countries, the gap between nations has remained steady.
- Young adults are lonelier than ever – 19% of young adults report having no one they can rely on, a 39% increase since 2006.
- Social trust is declining – Many people distrust others more than they should, leading to missed opportunities for connection and rising political polarization.
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OK, I guess that is kinda interesting. I’m still going to eat my lunch alone though, because I have a beard and it gets messy.
There was a combo of findings that particularly stood out to me in relation to university life…
19% of young adults now report having no one they can rely on for social support. That’s a 39% increase since 2006.
Research suggests most students underestimate how much their peers care about them. This perception gap can lead to self-isolation and fewer social interactions, even when opportunities exist.
Students who formed strong friendships early in university reported higher wellbeing and lower depression rates later in their studies. Building connections early sets the foundation for a more supportive and fulfilling university experience.
These point to a potentially important task for students in their first year. Namely, find, opportunities, no matter how simple, to maximise social interactions. And to trust (I realise this can be difficult) that others might be more open and receptive to these interactions than you think.
📚 Talk to someone in a lecture – That student sitting next to you? They might be just as eager to connect but hesitant to make the first move. A simple “Hey, have you done the reading for this week?” could start a great academic partnership—or even a friendship. Unless they didn’t do the reading and then you might have just freaked them out.
💻Ask a question in an online setting – Many students feel awkward about engaging in online discussions. But participation not only helps academically—it also makes you more visible to classmates who might be looking for study partners. I can also say that as someone who delivers lectures, students who participate make it a much more enjoyable experience for all, including us lecturers.
📖Start a study group – If you’re struggling with content, others likely are too. Forming a study group doesn’t just improve grades; it builds connections that make university feel less isolating.
🎭Join a club or society – Whether it’s a sports team, hobby group, or academic society, being part of something outside of lectures adds layers of belonging and social support.
🍽️Eat meals with others – The report found that people who eat alone frequently report lower life satisfaction. If you’re grabbing lunch on campus, invite someone along—it’s an easy way to build connections over time. I’d caution against just walking up to someone eating their lunch and talking right in their face. People can get protective of their Subway sandwiches.
🏫Check out the Oasis Community Centre and their programs – lots of opportunities to meet new people in low stakes settings, for example Flinders Mates and Conversation Groups.
The early weeks of university are a pretty good opportunity for forming connections. Everyone is still settling in, which means people are more open to making new friends and joining groups. But honestly, there isn’t a rush. I made my first real friend at university in my 3rd year. It took me 6 years to make a friend in my current role. There are always little opportunities showing up.
A key takeaway from the 2025 World Happiness Report? Trust that others are more open to connection than you might think.
Small efforts—introducing yourself, engaging in discussions, inviting someone to lunch—can have a lasting impact on your happiness and university experience.
So as the semester really builds momentum, consider taking a step. The connections you make now could shape not only your academic journey but your overall wellbeing.
⭐What’s one small action you can take this week to build a new connection? Drop a comment below or share your experience— it would be great to hear from you!⭐
Oh and if you are interested in becoming a better communicator – check out our Supercommunciators program.
