The United States has experienced a significant drop in happiness, ranking 24th in the World Happiness Report, its lowest position since the report’s inception in 2012. According to the annual UN-sponsored report, one of the contributing factors to this decline is the increasing number of Americans eating their meals alone. “The number of people dining alone in the United States has increased 53 percent over the past two decades,” the report stated, adding that sharing meals “is strongly linked with well-being.” In 2023, about one in four Americans reported eating all their meals alone the previous day, highlighting a troubling trend of social isolation.
This loneliness, particularly during meals, is not merely a matter of preference but a reflection of broader social dynamics that may be affecting the spiritual and emotional health of Americans. As Catholics, we understand that the act of sharing a meal is more than nourishment for the body; it is a sacred time for fellowship and communion, deeply embedded in our faith. Jesus himself chose to break bread with His disciples, emphasizing the importance of community and unity (Luke 24:30-31). In the Eucharist, the central sacrament of our faith, we gather not alone, but as a family of believers, reflecting the profound connection that God desires for us with one another.
The report also noted the rise in “deaths of despair,” such as suicide and substance abuse, in the United States. These deaths have increased even as many countries have seen declines in such tragedies. This disturbing trend may be linked to a loss of hope and a weakened sense of community. Catholics recognize the profound impact that isolation can have on the soul. In Romans 12:15, we are called to “Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn,” reminding us that our lives are meant to be shared with others in times of joy and sorrow.
The findings of the report are clear: “The increasing number of people who eat alone is one reason for declining well-being in the United States,” the authors said. This isolation points to a deeper need for connection, which is essential for our emotional and spiritual health. The Church teaches that we are created for relationship—not only with God but with one another. In the Catechism of the Catholic Church, it says that “man is created in the image of the communion of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit” (CCC 355). Just as the Holy Trinity exists in perfect unity, so too are we called to live in unity with our brothers and sisters.
While the United States saw a decline in happiness, Finland maintained its position as the world’s happiest country for the eighth consecutive year, a ranking attributed to its strong welfare system and the joy that comes from communal ties. “Democracy is functioning well, we have free elections, free speech, low levels of corruption and all of these have shown to predict higher levels of national well-being,” explained Frank Martela, an assistant professor of well-being research in Finland. This stability and sense of community reflect the importance of living in a society that values social support and shared responsibility.
The report also highlighted the significance of generosity and kindness as predictors of happiness, even more so than wealth. It stated, “Engaging in acts of generosity and believing in the kindness of others are significant predictors of happiness, even more so than earning a higher salary.” This aligns with Catholic teachings on charity, where we are called to love and serve others, not for personal gain, but out of genuine compassion. In Matthew 25:35-40, Jesus reminds us that “whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me,” underscoring the importance of giving to others and building a community of care.
In a world that increasingly values individualism and material success, the World Happiness Report calls attention to the importance of social bonds. As Catholics, we are reminded that our happiness is not found in isolation or in the accumulation of wealth but in relationship—with God and with others. The Eucharist, the most powerful symbol of our faith, teaches us that joy is found in communion, in being present with others, and in extending love and kindness.
In conclusion, the findings of the World Happiness Report offer a profound lesson for us all: true happiness lies in connection, community, and generosity. As we reflect on these findings, we are reminded of our Catholic call to love one another and to build communities that reflect the love and unity of the Trinity. Let us pray for the grace to foster deeper relationships and to serve one another in love, recognizing that, as members of the Body of Christ, our happiness is intrinsically linked to the well-being of others.
Sources: World Happiness Report, 2025.
