At What Age Do People Feel Most Unhappy?
A study by economist David Blanchflower, covering hundreds of thousands of participants from more than 130 countries, found that life satisfaction reaches its lowest point at around age 47–49, with an average of 47.2 years. Researchers attribute this to a reassessment of achievements, high responsibility, and physical changes. After 50, happiness levels rise again due to a more realistic outlook and reduced pressure.
A study conducted by economist David Blanchflower, covering hundreds of thousands of participants from more than 130 countries, showed that life satisfaction follows a U-shaped trajectory: high in youth, declining in middle age, and rising again after 50. The lowest self-assessment of life occurs at approximately 47–49 years, on average 47.2 years. The authors link this to a reassessment of achievements, high responsibility, physical changes, and social factors such as anxiety and stress. After 50, people become more realistic, compare themselves less with others, and the burden decreases, contributing to increased satisfaction. Experts emphasize that 47 years is only an average figure, and not everyone experiences a crisis at this exact age.