According to a survey by Angus Reid, Canadians are increasingly dissatisfied with their lives, citing stress and financial difficulties.
In 2016, 79% of Canadians said they were very satisfied (16%) or somewhat satisfied (63%) with their lives, compared to just under 18% of the population who admitted to being dissatisfied with their lot.
Seven years later, the proportion of unhappy people jumped to 27%, while Canadians satisfied with their lives made up just 70% of the population, including nearly 12% of Canadians who are very satisfied with their lives, according to data released Wednesday from the opinion research institute.
While Canadians are generally satisfied with their family and friendship relationships (81%), they are slightly more disillusioned when it comes to their love life (69% satisfied) and leisure time (69%). Respondents were most concerned about their stress levels, with only 55% of Canadians able to manage it well, and their financial situation, which was considered satisfactory by almost 57% of respondents.
“Grateful” after a “strenuous” year
The pollster also asked Canadians what three words they would use to describe their 2023.
37% of respondents at the top of the podium said they were “grateful” for their year or admitted they found it “exhausting.”
Among the negative answers, “anxious” (28%), “frustrating” (25%) and “depressing” (20%) were also popular answers.
Even more positive, 26% chose “satisfactory” and 24% chose “satisfied.”