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London School of Economics study reveals interesting facts about 'happiness'

  • The study was conducted by Lord Richard Layard and his team of researchers at the London School of Economics (LSE).
  • Elimination of depression and anxiety will reduce 20% of misery as compared to 5% upon elimination of poverty.
  • Schools have major role to play in emotional health of children.
London School of Economics study on happiness

 

It is not money but failed relationship as well as illness physical and mental that leads to human misery. This was the discovery of a new landmark study, titled 'Origin of Happiness', conducted by Lord Richard Layard and his team of researchers at the London School of Economics (LSE).  

 

This new study is based on the data collected from four countries and experts from across the globe will be assessing these research evidence on happiness and well being over a life course to suggest policies reduce misery while promoting well-being. 

 

According to this study, elimination of depression and anxiety will reduce 20% of misery as compared to 5% upon elimination of poverty. Also, that measures to reduce mental illness will not involve any net cost to public money. 

 

Here are the three important finding of the study:

 

First, inequality in income impacts just 1% variation in happiness as opposed to mental health that impacts 4% variation in happiness. Also, education does not have much effect on life satisfaction as compared to other factors like having a life partner. 

 

Second, income or education is evaluated by people as per prevailing local norm. Therefore, the increase in both of these has little impact on overall happiness. This is why despite improvement of living standards, the average happiness of countries like the US, Britain, Australia, and Germany has not improved proportionately. 

 

Third, emotional health is the strongest factor that predicts a happy adult life. 

 

Also, the study has powerful evidence that proves school have a considerable impact on the emotional health of children. Choice of school also impacts exam results.

 

Lord Layard also said that states earlier dealt with issues such as poverty, education, unemployment and physical health, but now, depression, domestic violence, alcoholism, anxiety, alienated youth, exam-mania are equally crucial and should be the centre stage for states. 

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