Each morning, as the sun rises, the world is renewed. For Catholics, this daily renewal is a reminder of God’s mercy and grace. Scripture tells us, “His mercies are new every morning” (Lamentations 3:22-23), reinforcing the idea that each day is a fresh opportunity for joy and gratitude. Interestingly, science now confirms what our faith has long taught—that mornings are, indeed, the happiest time of day.
Scientific Findings on Morning Happiness
According to research published in BMJ Mental Health, scientists from University College London (UCL) found that “mornings are the happiest time of day.” Their study analyzed nearly a million survey responses from almost 50,000 adults between March 2020 and March 2022, tracking fluctuations in happiness, life satisfaction, and a sense of purpose. The results were clear: “irrespective of the day, a person wakes up in a good mood.”
However, as the day progresses, happiness declines, hitting its lowest point around midnight. The study also found that weekends influence mood differently. People tend to feel happier on weekend mornings than on weekdays, but their mood also drops more sharply at night. The researchers suggest this may be due to differing daily activities and routines between workdays and rest days (UCL Study, BMJ Mental Health).
Faith and Science Align
This scientific perspective aligns beautifully with Catholic teaching. The morning has long been considered a sacred time—an opportunity to start anew with prayer, gratitude, and purpose. The Liturgy of the Hours, particularly Lauds (morning prayer), is designed to begin the day in praise of God. The Psalms frequently speak of morning joy: “O Lord, in the morning you hear my voice; in the morning I prepare a sacrifice for you and watch” (Psalm 5:3).
The researchers also noted that happiness and life satisfaction were higher on Mondays and Fridays than on Sundays. While the study did not explore spiritual reasons for this, one could consider how the structure of the workweek might influence our outlook. Many Catholics find joy in the rhythm of weekly Mass, the anticipation of Sunday rest, and the spiritual renewal found in the Eucharist. However, for some, Sunday may also bring anxieties about the upcoming week, which could explain the reported dip in happiness.
The Role of the Body and Mind
Physiologically, the body’s natural rhythms contribute to these fluctuations. The study explains that cortisol, a hormone regulating mood and motivation, peaks shortly after waking and decreases throughout the day. This may be one reason why the morning often feels more hopeful and energized (UCL Study, BMJ Mental Health).
From a Catholic perspective, this reinforces the importance of beginning the day with prayer and thanksgiving. St. Thérèse of Lisieux once said, “Jesus does not demand great actions from us but simply surrender and gratitude.” If we begin each day by offering it to God, we can align ourselves with His grace, making use of the natural energy and positivity that science confirms is strongest in the morning.
Practical Implications for Faith and Mental Health
Dr. Feifei Bu, a lead researcher in the study, pointed out an important application of these findings: “Mental health support services might consider adjusting resources to match fluctuating needs across the day—for instance, prioritizing late-night availability” (UCL Study, BMJ Mental Health). This insight could also apply to pastoral care and parish life.
Priests, ministers, and Catholic organizations might consider structuring outreach efforts to reflect these natural shifts in mood. While morning prayer and Mass help many start the day joyfully, late-night ministries—such as Eucharistic Adoration or helplines—could provide support for those struggling in the evening hours.
Embracing the Gift of Each Morning
The UCL study reminds us that joy is often strongest in the morning, a truth that mirrors our faith’s emphasis on renewal. Just as scientists observed that “things do seem better in the morning,” our Catholic tradition encourages us to begin each day with hope, entrusting ourselves to God’s care. Whether through morning Mass, personal prayer, or gratitude, embracing the gift of each morning can set the tone for a life filled with joy and purpose.
In the words of the Psalmist: “This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it” (Psalm 118:24).
