European Life Satisfaction Scores: A Ranging Perspective
In a recent study by the European Commission's statistical research service, it was revealed that the average European Union citizen rates their life satisfaction at 7.3 out of 10. The survey, conducted in 2023, also highlighted some intriguing variations across the continent.
Finland, Belgium, Austria, Romania, and Slovenia emerged as the frontrunners, with life satisfaction ratings of 7.7 to 7.8. Finland, often referred to as "the happiest country in the world" in various rankings, topped the list with a rating of 7.8. This finding is noteworthy, considering that Finland is also one of the countries with one of the highest rates of drug overdose deaths and antidepressant use among EU nations.
At the opposite end of the spectrum, Greece, Lithuania, and Bulgaria recorded the lowest life satisfaction ratings of 6.9, 6.9, and 5.9 respectively.
The reasons behind these differences are multifaceted, encompassing economic, social, psychological, and environmental dimensions.
From an economic perspective, higher income levels and financial security generally contribute to higher life satisfaction. The design of jobs, including complexity and control over tasks, also plays a significant role. Welfare states that invest in active labor market policies (ALMPs) and unemployment benefits can reduce differences in job satisfaction across occupational groups.
Social connections and community engagement are another crucial factor. Strong social connections and community engagement contribute positively to life satisfaction, while isolation or lack of social support can decrease it. Education, too, plays a role, as access to education and educational attainment can enhance life prospects and satisfaction by providing better job opportunities and personal fulfillment.
Psychological factors such as mental health, stress, burnout, and mental distress significantly impact life satisfaction. Participation in civic activities can also contribute to a sense of purpose and fulfillment, enhancing life satisfaction.
Environmental conditions, including those affected by climate change, can indirectly impact life satisfaction. For example, exposure to hazards like heat and extreme weather can affect workers' health and well-being, potentially decreasing life satisfaction.
Matti Korhonen, a Finnish journalist, stated that Finns generally do not consider faith to have a significant impact on the country's happiness. However, he also mentioned that the Nordic welfare state, built on principles of the Lutheran Reformation, is underpinned by Christian values, despite declining religiosity in Finland.
The study also revealed that, beyond geographical location, several factors influence people's perception of their life satisfaction. Even those with the lowest incomes or primary education tend to be more satisfied with their lives than not. Having children in a household, on average, also increases life satisfaction.
It's important to note that the data used for these ratings was published by the European Commission's statistical research service in January 2025. The article was published in Evangelical Focus, a platform that is currently facing a sustainability challenge, as part of a mission shared by individuals across Europe and beyond.
For more information about Evangelical Focus's #OneMoreYearEF campaign, visit their website. The campaign aims to encourage individuals to make small changes in their daily lives to contribute to a more sustainable future.
In light of the European Commission's survey revealing that Finland, often regarded as the happiest country in the world, has a high rate of drug overdose deaths and antidepressant use among EU nations, it raises questions about the relationship between mental health and life satisfaction in health-and-wellness and lifestyle aspects. The study also suggests that beyond geographical location, psychological factors such as mental health, stress, burnout, and mental distress significantly impact life satisfaction.
