Singapore is renowned for its prosperity, safety, and efficient governance. Yet, despite high living standards, Singaporeans are often perceived as less happy or more stressed compared to citizens of other developed nations. This apparent paradox – a wealthy society with a reputation for unhappiness – has been noted in global surveys and local discourse. For example, a Gallup poll once dubbed Singapore the “world’s least emotional” country . Meanwhile, the World Happiness Report consistently ranks Singapore below many countries with lower GDP, suggesting that economic success has not fully translated into subjective well-being. This report examines the multifaceted reasons behind this perception of unhappiness among Singaporeans, exploring dimensions ranging from life satisfaction surveys and mental health statistics to work-life balance, cultural expectations, economic and housing pressures, educational stress, and historical context. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the factors influencing Singaporeans’ happiness (or lack thereof) and how these have evolved over time.
Life Satisfaction in Global Surveys
Happiness Rankings: International surveys of life satisfaction have historically placed Singapore in the middle-upper tier globally – higher than its regional neighbors but well below the happiest nations. In the UN World Happiness Report 2025, Singapore was ranked 34th out of 143 countries (its lowest position since the report began in 2012) . Singapore remains the happiest country in Southeast Asia, yet it lags behind the top-ranked Nordic countries despite its wealth . Key metrics illustrate the gap:
Country
Happiness Score (2024/25)
Global Rank (2025)
Finland
~7.74 (highest)
1
United Kingdom
~6.75
20
Singapore
~6.57
34
Afghanistan
~1.72 (lowest)
143
Table: World Happiness Report comparisons – Singapore vs. selected countries (Note: scores are on a scale from 0 to 10).
Singapore’s happiness score (roughly 6.5 out of 10) is far below Finland’s world-leading score (~7.7) but well above the least happy nations in the world . This indicates that while Singaporeans are not miserable by global standards, they report significantly lower life evaluations than one might expect given their country’s affluence. In fact, the World Happiness Report finds Singapore excels in GDP per capita (ranked #1) and has very low corruption, yet scores lower on social support and freedom to make life choices – factors that drag down its overall happiness ranking . Many Singaporeans in the survey expressed “concerns about weak support from family and friends and a lack of freedom to choose their lifestyles.” These social indicators help explain why Singapore’s ranking fell to 34th globally in 2025 despite its economic strengths.
Emotional Experience: In addition to life evaluation scores, Gallup’s global polls on daily emotions have painted Singapore as a relatively “flat” or unemotional society. In a famous 2012 Gallup survey, only 36% of Singaporeans reported experiencing either positive or negative emotions on a daily basis – the lowest proportion in the world at that time . Singapore was thus labeled the “most emotionless society” in that poll, compared to a global average of about 50% and 60% in the most emotional countries (like the Philippines) . Similarly, a follow-up Gallup study in 2012 found Singapore to be the “least positive” country, meaning residents reported fewer positive experiences than anywhere else . While being “less emotional” is not identical to being unhappy, these findings reinforced a public perception that Singaporeans lack joy or passion in daily life. Even a decade later, Gallup’s data show Singapore tends to score lower on positive experiences and higher on stress relative to many countries . Singaporeans themselves have reacted to such rankings with a mix of humor and reflection – e.g. quipping “not sure how to feel about that” in response to being called emotionless . Nonetheless, the image has stuck that Singapore’s fast-paced, pragmatic lifestyle might be coming at the cost of emotional well-being.
Mental Health and Well-Being
Beneath the aggregate happiness scores, mental health statistics in Singapore reveal areas of concern that underpin the “unhappiness” narrative. Surveys and studies indicate rising stress, anxiety, and other mental health issues among Singaporeans in recent years:
High Stress Levels: A 2024 national youth mental health study found that about 1 in 3 young Singaporeans (30.6%) aged 15–35 reported “severe or extremely severe” levels of depression, anxiety and/or stress . This is an alarmingly high figure, suggesting nearly a third of youths are struggling with very poor mental well-being. Another survey in 2023 showed 25% of young adults (18–29) rated their mental health as “poor” . Such findings underscore widespread emotional strain among the younger population.
Depression and Anxiety: Even outside the youth demographic, mental disorders are not rare. The most recent Singapore Mental Health Study reported a lifetime prevalence of ~13.9% for common mental disorders (mood, anxiety, or alcohol use disorders) in the adult population – roughly 1 in 7 people. Depression in particular is a concern among both youths and older adults. One study estimated about 18% of Singaporean youth suffer from depression at any point in time . Among the elderly, meta-analyses show significant levels of subclinical depression as well , indicating mental health challenges across age groups.
Suicide Rates: The ultimate tragically quantifiable outcome of poor mental health is suicide, and Singapore has seen worrying trends in recent years. Suicide is the leading cause of death for Singaporeans aged 10–29 and has been for several years running . In 2022, the country recorded 476 suicides, a 26% jump from the previous year and the highest number since 2000 . This equates to more than one suicide per day in a nation of 5.6 million . Although suicide deaths declined in 2023 (after that peak in 2022), the fact that suicides spiked during the COVID-19 era and remain the top cause of youth mortality highlights the intense pressures faced by young Singaporeans. The 20–29 age group saw the largest increase in suicides in that period . Experts have linked this to social isolation, academic and career pressures, and stigma around seeking help . The government and NGOs have responded with new initiatives in recent years to tackle youth mental health and suicide prevention, reflecting the urgency of the issue .
Help-Seeking and Stigma: One positive sign is growing awareness and efforts to address mental health. Surveys show mental health literacy is improving and stigma is slowly decreasing . Yet many Singaporeans still do not seek professional help when needed. Among youths with severe mental health symptoms, a majority first turn to friends or family (informal support), and only a minority get formal help. The National Youth Mental Health Study noted that informal networks are the predominant support, aligning with a cultural reluctance to approach therapists or counselors . This can delay treatment. The government launched a National Mental Health and Well-Being Strategy in 2023 to coordinate a “whole-of-society” approach to mental wellness . This includes improving mental health education in schools and expanding community resources like youth outreach teams and counseling services . Such measures are crucial to mitigate the mental health crisis underlying the unhappiness perceptions.
In sum, while Singapore enjoys excellent physical health outcomes (e.g. one of the world’s highest life expectancies), its mental health outcomes are less rosy. Significant segments of the population – especially students and young working adults – report high stress, anxiety, and burnout. These mental health challenges directly contribute to lower life satisfaction. It is difficult to be “happy” in the holistic sense when one feels chronically stressed or emotionally unwell. The rising prominence of mental health issues in Singapore’s public discussion over the past decade shows a growing recognition that happiness is not guaranteed by material comfort alone.
Work-Life Balance and Workplace Stress
Another major factor in Singapore’s happiness equation is its work culture and work-life balance – or lack thereof. Singaporeans have a global reputation for working long hours in a highly competitive economy, which can diminish time for leisure, family, and personal fulfilment.
Long Working Hours: Singapore consistently ranks among the most overworked countries. Historically, residents have put in some of the longest working hours in the world. In 2012, Singaporeans worked an average of 46.6 hours per week, the highest globally according to the International Labour Organization . A decade later, there has been a slight improvement – by 2021 the average work week had declined to about 43 hours (2,247 hours annually) . However, this is still very high by international standards (for comparison, many Western European countries average 35–40 hours). A 2022 study on city work-life balance ranked Singapore as the 4th most overworked city in the world . Only Dubai, Hong Kong, and Kuala Lumpur scored worse in terms of work intensity . Such long hours inevitably cut into leisure and family time, contributing to stress and lower satisfaction. It’s telling that in recent surveys, Singaporean employees themselves prioritize better work-life balance over higher salary – for three years in a row, “work-life balance” was the top desire among workers (ahead of pay) . This indicates a real need that many feel is unmet in their current work arrangements.
Job Stress and Engagement: The pressure-cooker work environment in Singapore can lead to disengagement and burnout. One striking statistic from the early 2010s found that only 2% of Singapore’s workforce felt engaged with their jobs, versus a global average of 11% . While that specific figure may have improved in recent years, surveys continue to show significant workplace stress. In a 2022 poll, 86% of Singapore respondents reported stress at work – far above the global average – with heavy workload and long hours being top stressors . Singapore’s rapid, competitive corporate culture, where the ethos is often to work harder and longer, can leave employees exhausted. Burnout among certain professions (like healthcare workers and teachers) has been highlighted in local media . Moreover, the pandemic blurred work-life boundaries further, as “always-on” remote work expectations took hold. Although Singapore has begun exploring ideas like flexible work arrangements and even four-day workweeks in some companies , these are not yet widespread.
Limited Leisure and Relaxation: The dominance of work in many Singaporeans’ lives means less time for hobbies, socializing, and rest – all important for happiness. International indices of work-life balance (such as Kisi’s Work-Life Balance Index) tend to rank Singapore poorly on the “livability” aspects (like time off, vacation taken, leisure activities) . For instance, full-time workers in Singapore often do not utilize their annual leave fully, and public holidays are fewer compared to some countries. The cultural norm has been to prioritize career success, sometimes at the expense of personal life. As one Singaporean quipped, there is a “hustle culture” where everyone strives to “get the best job, get the best [results]”, which can create a relentless cycle of working and worrying . Over time, this takes a toll on happiness, as chronic overwork leads to fatigue and diminished life satisfaction.
It’s worth noting that the Singapore government and companies are increasingly aware of these issues. In recent years, there have been public campaigns about work-life harmony, and some firms are instituting policies for flexible hours or telecommuting. Nonetheless, achieving a healthier balance remains a work in progress. Surveys show that over 70% of Singaporeans consider work-life balance a key factor in a good job, yet many feel this balance is currently lacking . Until Singapore’s work culture shifts to allow more breathing room, it will be hard for the population to feel content and relaxed.
Cultural and Societal Expectations
Singapore’s societal culture plays a pivotal role in shaping happiness. From a young age, Singaporeans are immersed in a high-pressure environment defined by competition, achievement, and a fear of falling behind. Several cultural factors contribute to stress and subdued happiness:
“Kiasu” Mentality: A well-known facet of Singaporean culture is kiasu, a Hokkien term meaning “fear of losing out.” This captures a mindset of intense competitiveness and self-maximization. The kiasu attitude drives people to seize every opportunity – whether it’s chasing top grades, securing the best jobs, or even hoarding resources – out of fear that not doing so means being left behind. While kiasuism has spurred Singaporeans to high achievement, it also breeds anxiety. Psychologists note that kiasu culture, stemming from historical survival instincts, has created “a modern-day pressure cooker, where the fear of failure is amplified by the collective expectation to thrive.” In daily life, this can be seen in everything from parents aggressively enrolling kids in enrichment classes to workers constantly upgrading their skills. The perpetual fear of not being the best fosters a society that struggles to relax or be content with “good enough,” potentially undermining happiness.
Materialism and Meritocracy Pressure: Singapore is often described by its own residents as a “materialistic, competitive and elitist” society . Decades of meritocracy – the idea that anyone can succeed through hard work – have boosted standards of living, but also created what some call “an obsession with success.” Many Singaporeans feel a strong pressure to attain markers of status: top academic credentials, prestigious careers, high income, private property, etc. The education system and social structures reinforce this by streaming people according to performance from an early age. As a result, self-worth can become tightly linked to achievements. The competition in schools is especially fierce, as students (and parents) vie for limited spots in elite programs and scholarships . A commentary in The Globalist observed that “people study and work purely for social status and personal face”, warning that this mindset “will not lead to happiness.” When individuals constantly compare themselves with others and feel they must “keep up with the Joneses,” it can breed dissatisfaction. Indeed, fear of failure is notably high in Singapore – surveys of students find a greater fear of failing and letting down expectations than in most OECD countries . This cultural climate makes it difficult for people to feel satisfied or joyful, since there is always another benchmark of success to chase.
Social Relationships and Community: Ironically, the focus on individual achievement in Singapore may have weakened some traditional sources of happiness like tight-knit community bonds. The World Happiness Report data shows Singapore scoring lower on “having someone to count on in times of trouble.” Singapore ranked only 48th on social support, despite being top five in economic measures . Communal and family ties in Singapore are certainly present (family is important in Asian cultures), but modern life has reduced the time and energy to nurture these relationships. Smaller family sizes, long work hours, and an ethos of self-reliance mean many people have limited social circles. A common local lament is that the traditional “kampung (village) spirit” of looking out for neighbors has faded in the urban city-state. In the happiness surveys, Singaporeans reported weaker social support and generosity than residents of many other countries . For instance, Singapore was ranked a lowly 110th in generosity in one UN happiness report, and similarly low in the World Giving Index . While Singaporeans are not unkind, this reflects that people may be less emotionally connected or altruistic in daily life compared to more community-oriented societies. Social scientists have pointed out that high inequality and intense competition can erode social cohesion – people become more siloed or even distrustful. The widening income gap in Singapore (discussed below) has indeed been noted as a factor that “estranges the harmony and solidarity among people.” Singapore’s income Gini coefficient has long been above 0.40 (the level often seen as problematic); it stood at 0.478 (pre-taxes/transfers) in 2012, higher inequality than any OECD country . Such stratification can foster a sense of each person for themselves, weakening collective happiness.
Aversion to Risk and Expression (“Kiasi”): Alongside kiasu, another Hokkien term kiasi – “fear of death” or fear of risk – describes Singaporean society’s cautious nature . Singapore’s upbringing conditions people to avoid mistakes, follow rules, and maintain stability. This has benefits (a very orderly, safe environment) but may also suppress spontaneity, creativity, and open emotional expression. Culturally, Singaporeans tend to be more reserved and pragmatic, less prone to outward exuberance or confrontation. Some observers suggest this contributes to the “unhappy” stereotype, because foreigners might equate the lack of smiling faces or overt cheerfulness with gloom. In reality, Singapore’s reserved demeanor is partly cultural conditioning. However, it is true that a strong preference for security and order can sometimes conflict with the pursuit of happiness – for example, individuals might stick to conventional life paths deemed “safe” (stable jobs, etc.) at the expense of personal passions or dreams. The lack of perceived freedom to choose one’s path, as noted in the World Happiness Report data, is a salient point . Many Singaporeans feel their life choices (career, lifestyle, etc.) are constrained by societal expectations or practical limitations in the city-state. This can lead to regret or a sense of life being “mapped out,” which dampens life satisfaction.
In summary, Singapore’s cultural DNA – forged by years of striving for survival and success – has produced a double-edged sword. Qualities like diligence, discipline, and ambition have built a first-world nation, but they also create immense social pressures on the individual. As one commentary succinctly put it, “Survival of the fittest was long the worldview of competitive Singapore. Within Singapore, it has gone too far.” The challenge now is to recalibrate cultural values to emphasize well-being, empathy, and balance, so that people can feel happier and more fulfilled, not just successful.
Economic Pressures and Cost of Living
Beyond culture, concrete economic and living conditions in Singapore contribute greatly to stress and discontent. Singapore is frequently cited as one of the most expensive places to live in the world, and this financial pressure weighs on residents:
Cost of Living Concerns: In recent surveys, Singaporeans overwhelmingly point to cost of living as their number one concern. In a April 2025 YouGov poll, 72% of Singaporeans named “cost of living” as the top national issue – by far the most cited concern . Day-to-day expenses like food, utilities, transport, and especially housing have been rising and eroding the sense of financial security. International rankings routinely put Singapore at or near the top for costliness. The Economist Intelligence Unit’s 2023 Worldwide Cost of Living survey found Singapore is the world’s most expensive city, tied with Zurich, a title it has held in 9 of the past 11 years . Everything from car ownership (due to high vehicle taxes) to groceries commands a premium in Singapore. While salaries are also high on average, many people feel their income struggles to keep pace with inflation and pricey big-ticket items. This is corroborated by sentiment data: a 2024 city study noted that 38% of Singapore residents live paycheck-to-paycheck and that a significant majority (64%) feel their neighborhood has become less affordable in just the last year . Inflation spikes in recent years (exacerbated by global trends) hit Singaporeans’ wallets hard, causing anxiety about making ends meet.
Housing Stress: Housing is a central part of the Singaporean dream (over 80% of citizens live in government-built HDB flats, mostly owner-occupied), but it’s also a major pain point. Real estate prices have soared in the past few years. By 2023, home prices and rents had skyrocketed due to high demand as the economy reopened post-pandemic . Young couples often face long waits or fierce competition for subsidized Build-To-Order (BTO) flats, and resale flat prices reached record highs. Even though Singapore has one of the highest home ownership rates in the world, the path to owning a home is increasingly stressful for the younger generation. In the YouGov poll, housing affordability was the #3 concern nationally (36% cited it) after cost of living and healthcare . Many millennials worry if they can ever afford private housing, given the limited land and ever-rising prices. High housing costs also mean people take on large mortgages, which can be a source of financial strain for decades. Furthermore, the typical HDB apartment, while decent, is quite compact in size – urban density means most Singaporeans live in high-rise flats with limited space. Crowded living conditions and lack of privacy can add to daily stress (especially during COVID lockdowns, this was noted as a factor affecting mental well-being ). The government has rolled out measures to cool the housing market and provide grants, but demand continues to outstrip supply in many segments. Housing is not just a financial issue but an emotional one – delays in getting a home can postpone life milestones (marriage, children), leading to frustration. All these housing stressors feed into the broader narrative of why some Singaporeans feel unhappy or anxious about their future.
Wage and Inequality Issues: Although Singapore’s GDP per capita is one of the highest globally, income inequality and wage concerns affect happiness. The median income has been growing only modestly in real terms in recent years, while costs climb faster. Lower-income Singaporeans in particular may feel left out of the nation’s prosperity. Public surveys show dissatisfaction with the wealth gap and wages – for instance, a 2023 poll found most respondents were unhappy with how Singapore is handling the income disparity and felt wages (especially for lower-end jobs) are not keeping up . Singapore’s Gini coefficient after taxes/transfers remains around 0.38–0.40 in recent years, higher than many European countries (though lower than some other global cities). High inequality can lead to a sense of relative deprivation: those in the middle or bottom see the extravagant wealth of the elite (luxury condos, expensive cars) and feel less satisfied with their own lot. At the same time, Singapore’s lack of a broad social safety net (compared to Nordic welfare states) might contribute to insecurity – people worry about saving enough for retirement, healthcare, etc., which can diminish happiness. The government emphasizes self-reliance and family support over extensive social assistance, which works for many, but for some it can mean lying awake at night worrying about finances.
Healthcare and Aging Population: It’s worth noting that another significant concern Singaporeans voice is healthcare and the aging population (in the YouGov survey, 41% cited it) . As the population ages rapidly, many residents are sandwiched between caring for elderly parents and supporting their own kids. The stress of caregiving and the costs of medical care or eldercare can be considerable, affecting middle-aged Singaporeans’ peace of mind. This is sometimes called the “sandwich generation” burden and is a known contributor to stress in advanced Asian societies. While Singapore’s healthcare system is high-quality, individuals still bear part of the costs through co-payment schemes, so serious illnesses can be a financial strain. Anxiety about health and old age security therefore also factors into overall life satisfaction.
In summary, the economic pressures of living in a high-cost global city like Singapore are very real to its citizens. When a large portion of one’s income goes towards housing loans, utility bills, education fees, and basic goods, it can create a constant undercurrent of stress. This financial stress, on top of a busy worklife, leaves people less room to feel happy and carefree. It is telling that nearly two-thirds of Singaporeans say their city is becoming less livable due to rising expenses, even as they acknowledge it remains safe and well-run . Ensuring that economic growth translates into tangible improvements in quality of life is an ongoing challenge – and one that directly impacts national happiness.
Education and Academic Pressure
No discussion of unhappiness in Singapore would be complete without examining the education system and academic stress. Singapore’s schools are world-renowned for excellence, consistently topping global benchmarks in math, science, and literacy. However, this excellence comes at the price of intense pressure on students (and by extension, their parents). The formative years of Singaporeans’ lives are often marked by high stress in pursuit of academic success, which can have long-term effects on well-being.
High-Stakes Exams: From primary school onward, Singaporean students face a series of high-stakes exams that can shape their academic and career trajectories. The Primary School Leaving Examination (PSLE) at around age 12 is famously stressful – it determines placement into secondary schools of varying prestige. Then come the O-Levels, A-Levels or other exams that determine entry into universities or polytechnics. The competition is fierce; a difference of a few points can mean ending up in a less desired school or course. This exam-centric system has been criticized for creating unnecessary anxiety in children. It’s common for students to report fear of disappointing their parents or “losing out” in the race. In fact, studies show Singaporean students are significantly more likely than their international peers to feel very anxious before tests and to fear failure . The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) noted that even though Singaporean teenagers outperform almost everyone academically, they report among the lowest levels of subjective well-being in school. The relentless focus on grades can diminish the joy of learning – as one student survey put it, there is a “deep-seated and unhealthy obsession with grades” that “diminishes [students’] joy of learning” .
Tuition Culture: To keep up in this competitive system, an entire shadow industry of private tutoring has boomed in Singapore. It’s practically expected that students will attend tuition (extra classes) outside school, often several times a week, especially in critical exam years. In 2023, Singaporean families spent a staggering S$1.8 billion (US$1.35B) on private tuition – up almost 30% since 2018 . This works out to one of the highest per-capita tutoring expenditures in the world. Even average students feel pressure to get tutoring because, as one parent recounted, “all her classmates were achieving As [with tutors]… The competition now is not about getting a pass, it’s getting to be super elite.” . While tutoring can help improve grades, it also means students have packed schedules, less downtime, and often, heightened stress. A typical Singaporean student might go to school from morning until mid-afternoon, then have back-to-back tuition classes for math, science, etc., into the evening. This leaves little time for play, sleep, or family interaction. Chronic sleep deprivation among students is a noted issue. A lecturer in child psychology observed that many heavily-tutored kids suffer “chronic stress and a lack of sleep” due to back-to-back classes and homework . Essentially, childhood and adolescence become a marathon of academic drills. This upbringing can wire people to equate their self-worth with academic performance, contributing to anxiety and burnout that persist into working life.
Mental Health Impact on Youth: The academic stress in Singapore has clear mental health repercussions, which we touched on earlier. To recap, about 1 in 3 youths report extreme stress/depression levels , and youth suicide cases, while multifaceted, often link back to academic or social pressures. Local media has tragically reported cases of students self-harming or worse due to exam disappointment or fear of letting parents down. In a 2022 survey of university undergraduates, almost 90% said that academic or work commitments were their greatest source of stress . Personal issues like relationships ranked far below academics in causing stress. This speaks volumes about how education pressure dominates young Singaporeans’ minds. The same survey noted students’ desire for systemic changes – e.g. “grace days” for assignment deadlines, a more flexible curriculum, and understanding from professors regarding mental distress . The Ministry of Education has in recent years started to dial back the pressure: they have reduced the number of exams and eliminated class rankings in lower grades, and are exploring ways to encourage holistic development rather than rote competition . While these reforms are promising, the deeply ingrained cultural mindset of chasing academic perfection will take time to shift. Until it does, the education journey for many will remain a gauntlet that can sour one’s overall happiness.
In essence, the education system, while a source of national pride, is also a source of personal unhappiness for many students. The stress and anxiety experienced in one’s formative years can carry forward, manifesting as a cautious, pressure-fueled approach to life (the aforementioned kiasu mindset). Many young Singaporeans only truly relax once they have completed their exams and begun working – only to find work life has its own pressures. The government and some parents are increasingly aware of this paradox and are taking steps to emphasize well-being and resilience in schools (e.g. incorporating mental health education in curricula ). Over time, a more balanced approach to education may help produce happier individuals. For now, though, academic stress remains a key piece of why Singaporeans are perceived as (and often feel) unhappy despite their successes.
Historical Context: From Survival to Well-Being
To fully understand Singapore’s current psyche, one must appreciate the historical context that shaped its values. Singapore’s journey from a poor, tumultuous past to a first-world hub is often cited as a reason its people are the way they are. The older generations endured hardship and instability, which influenced the nation’s priorities in ways still felt today:
Nation-Building Years: Singapore in the 1960s was an newly independent, resource-scarce country facing uncertain survival. The government under founding Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew adopted a no-nonsense, pragmatic approach focused on economic growth, security, and social order. In those early decades, happiness was a secondary concern – the emphasis was on “prosperity and progress,” as enshrined in the national pledge . Citizens were expected to work hard, obey laws, and trust that economic development would improve their lives (which it did materially). This social contract delivered spectacular results: by the 1990s, Singapore was affluent and orderly. However, an unintended effect was that a paternalistic, authoritarian streak became ingrained in society. Personal freedoms (of speech, etc.) were curtailed in favor of collective goals. Even in private life, the push was to conform and succeed, not to question or indulge. This historical focus on survival and discipline meant that emotional fulfillment or “soft” aspects of life were not prioritized. For many years, discussing mental health or work stress was uncommon – it was seen as complaining. Only recently has that conversation opened up. Thus, Singapore’s older population might even view expressions of unhappiness as a luxury they didn’t have. The mentality of “we struggled and survived, you have it so good now” can sometimes invalidate younger people’s emotional struggles, contributing to an environment where unhappiness, paradoxically, stews beneath the surface.
Trauma and Scarcity: Looking further back, Singapore’s collective memory includes trauma such as World War II (the Japanese occupation) and the tumultuous 1950s-60s riots and poverty. These events instilled a deep sense of vulnerability and scarcity in the national psyche . Psychologists note that Singapore’s fear-driven traits (kiasu and kiasi) are rooted in these historical experiences . When survival was at stake, being anxious and alert was rational. Early migrants and post-war citizens learned that only the fittest and most cautious thrived. That legacy has been passed down through parenting and societal norms. For example, many baby boomer parents, remembering past hardships, pushed their children to study relentlessly and choose stable careers, fearing that anything less would jeopardize their future. Even as Singapore became wealthy, the “scarcity mindset” persisted: a feeling that one must maximize every opportunity and never be complacent . This helps explain phenomena like parents overloading kids with enrichment classes, or workers constantly pursuing additional qualifications. It originates from a place of love and worry – not wanting loved ones to suffer in a competitive world. But the cumulative effect on society is a kind of chronic anxiety. Singapore today is extremely secure (low crime, good safety nets for basics, etc.), yet the old anxieties linger in new forms. People compete for the best school, the best condo, the best job, much like resources in a zero-sum game. Recognizing these historical roots can foster empathy for why Singaporeans might seem “unhappy” – they carry the weight of history’s fears even as they live in modern comfort.
Balancing Progress with Happiness: As Singapore matured, its leaders did eventually acknowledge that happiness should be part of the national goal. The national pledge itself speaks of achieving “happiness, prosperity and progress for our nation.” For its first 50 years, prosperity and progress clearly took precedence. Now, around its 60th year of independence, there is an active dialogue about recalibrating towards happiness. This is evident in policy shifts: e.g., recent government initiatives on mental well-being, moves to improve work-life balance, campaigns to “refresh our social compact” and emphasize graciousness and caring for the vulnerable. There’s an understanding that the next leap in Singapore’s development is a qualitative one – improving quality of life and citizen happiness, not just quantitative GDP growth. As one commentator wrote, having achieved tremendous prosperity, “for further progress, it is time to be much more mindful of the personal and social dimension of happiness, even if they are harder to quantify.” This indicates a historical turning point: the realization that GDP doesn’t equal GNH (Gross National Happiness). Countries like Bhutan have famously prioritized happiness; Singapore is not about to emulate that wholesale, but it is broadening its definition of success.
In summary, Singapore’s history helps answer why things are the way they are. The very qualities that built the nation – diligence, efficiency, fear of failure – are the same ones that can impede day-to-day happiness. The legacy of past struggles casts a long shadow, manifesting as modern stress. However, history is not destiny. By understanding the historical forces, Singaporeans can consciously choose to “honor [the] past while building a more sustainable and fulfilling future,” balancing the drive for success with individual well-being . This shift is underway, albeit gradually.
Conclusion: Toward a Happier Singapore
Singapore’s reputation for unhappiness is multi-causal and deeply intertwined with its societal model. High stress levels, intense work and study pressures, competitive cultural norms, economic anxieties, and lingering historical mindsets all contribute to a populace that, by many measures, feels less happy than it could be. It is important to emphasize that “unhappy” is a relative term here – by global standards, Singaporeans have comfortable lives and are not beset by misery or conflict. However, relative to their material success, their emotional and mental well-being appears lagging.
The good news is that these challenges are increasingly recognized, and efforts are being made on many fronts to address them. The government has initiated programs to support mental health (e.g. nationwide counselling services, anti-stigma campaigns) and encourage work-life balance and family bonding . Companies are slowly adopting employee wellness practices. Schools are adjusting to focus more on holistic development rather than rote results. Conversations about self-care, mindfulness, and the definition of success are becoming more common among Singaporeans, especially the younger generation.
In moving forward, experts often call for redefining success and recalibrating priorities in Singapore. This could mean valuing time spent with loved ones as much as overtime at work, encouraging students to learn for passion not just for exams, fostering community support systems so people have someone to turn to, and promoting a culture that celebrates simple joys and human connection alongside achievement. There are signs of such a cultural shift: for example, surveys show younger Singaporeans place relatively more importance on quality of life than the older generation did at their age . The COVID-19 pandemic, which imposed a pause on the breakneck pace of life, also prompted many to rethink their work-life priorities and mental health.
Ultimately, the question “Why are Singaporeans often perceived as unhappy?” might soon invite a follow-up: “What is being done about it?” Singapore has a track record of tackling challenges once identified. Just as it engineered economic prosperity, it can purposefully engineer policies and an environment conducive to well-being. This includes strengthening social support (so no one feels alone or trapped in their stress) and giving citizens more voice and freedom in charting their life paths (addressing the current perceived lack of autonomy) . It’s a complex mission – happiness is far less straightforward to measure or manufacture than GDP – but it is gradually being woven into the national agenda.
In conclusion, Singapore’s unhappiness perception stems from a confluence of mental health strains, work and study stress, cultural conditioning, economic pressure, and historical attitudes. Each of these dimensions is now being scrutinized and improved through various initiatives and societal changes. The journey to a happier Singapore will likely be evolutionary, not revolutionary. However, the fact that these issues are openly discussed in 2025 (where once they were not) is a significant step. With continued focus on mental well-being, social cohesion, and quality of life, Singapore may well close the gap between its material success and the subjective happiness of its people – ensuring that progress and prosperity ultimately lead to smiles and satisfaction for all.
Sources:
World Happiness Report data and rankings
Gallup and global surveys on emotions (2012 Gallup poll on Singapore’s emotionlessness)
South China Morning Post (Mar 2025) – Singapore’s happiness ranking and factors (social support, freedom)
The Globalist – analysis of Singapore’s happiness vs. success (cultural traits, inequality)
Ministry of Health Singapore & Institute of Mental Health – National Youth Mental Health Study 2024 (youth mental health stats)
Straits Times / IMH data – prevalence of youth depression/anxiety, youth suicide statistics