Are you too busy to be disappointed?
New Yorkers are convinced like to complainBut it seems that we are one of the least depressed states in the country. Annual happiness rankings,
WalletHub The Happiest States 2024 study ranks the Empire State at No. 5 in separate subcategories of states reporting the lowest and highest rates of adult depression – Not good enough to beat neighboring New Jersey, Which stood second in the list.
Hawaii, with its dazzling scenery and sunshine, ranked highest of all states and comfortably ranked No. 1.
Two other paradise-like states, California and Florida, were rounded out of the top 5 by the comparatively more cheerful Nebraska (No. 3) and Illinois (No. 4).
Less than half of Americans say they're “very satisfied” with their lives right now, according to the survey authors — who also added that the state you live in can also have an impact on how happy you are.
The researchers considered 30 key criteria, and collected state data for reported rates of depression to determine who had more severe depression — and who had less severe depression.
In 2023, the NYC Department of Health and Sanitation reported that 8% of adults experienced depression during the past year. This puts the Big Apple slightly above the national average of 7.1%.
Tennessee has been ranked as the most depressed state in America — a ranking that matches the results of a 2023 CDC study that reportedly came to the same conclusion.
According to Nashville Health, one in five people, or 22.1% of the population, in the Nashville area, the Volunteer State’s largest city, has been diagnosed with a depressive disorder at some point.
Oklahoma, Arkansas, West Virginia and Maine Volunteers ranked lowest in the state.
New York fared worse in the overall happiness rankings – dropping to 23rd when bigger issues like work, community and the environment were factored in.
Hawaii remains at the top of the list, while the Garden State dropped one spot to third, and was overtaken by Maryland, which moved up to second place.
Speaking specifically about New Jersey, the survey authors pointed out Overall Ranking They pointed to their high life satisfaction rates, the high rate of people reporting having supportive relationships and love in their lives, and the third-lowest separation and divorce rates in the country.
The state's prosperity was also discussed in relation to its well-being – particularly the reduction in poverty and food insecurity in recent years.
