Despite 70 years of gains, British less happy today than during the Great Depression; what gives?

Despite poorer living standards and more unemployment (not to mention lower wages and poorer health care), British people were happier in the depression of the 1930s than they are now, according to researchers from Briton's Cardiff University.

"When measures of happiness were first introduced in 1950 and we compare them with what we are getting now, clearly the society of today is very much less happy."

"Nowadays people have a better health care system, they're earning more, 96% have a colour television and 98% have access to their own bath. But our expectations are greater."

The LifeTwo perspective on this is that we are responsible for our own happiness and it won't come from outside influences (even significant societal ones).

While investigating happiness, the Cardiff University researchers also found the following:

Researchers have also found that the optimum time for feeling happy is around midday and just before bed.

The things that people most dislike include traveling to work, handling e-mails and housework.

Sex is the activity which makes us happiest, with socialising and relaxing also rated highly.

Shorter commutes, more time with friends and intimacy, are positive steps towards happiness.