What the UK can learn from the world’s happiest countries
Once again, Finland, Denmark, and Iceland top the World Happiness Report this year, with the UK ranking significantly lower at 23rd place.
While many factors contribute to national happiness, one recurring theme among the highest-ranking countries is education. Could the UK’s exam-driven, high-pressure school system be the reason? I think so.
At The Home Ed Daily, we’ve previously explored how Finland’s education system differs from Britain’s (read our full article here). Finland consistently ranks as one of the happiest countries in the world, and its play-based, student-centred approach to learning may be a key factor. So, what could the UK do differently to boost happiness?
1. Reform education to reduce stress
The UK’s education system places enormous pressure on children, with a strong emphasis on exams, league tables, and early formal learning. In contrast, Finland:
- Delays formal education until age seven, allowing children more time to develop social and emotional skills.
- Avoids excessive standardised testing, focusing instead on personal development and creative problem-solving.
- Gives teachers more autonomy, trusting them to create engaging and effective learning environments.
These differences matter because high levels of school-related stress can impact long-term well-being. If the UK wants to climb the Happiness Index, moving towards a more child-friendly, less rigid education system could be a good start.
2. Strengthen social support and reduce inequality
Nordic countries score highly on social support and trust in government, which helps create a sense of security and community. In contrast, many people in the UK experience financial insecurity, high housing costs, and stretched public services.
To improve national happiness, the UK could:
- Increase the minimum wage and benefits to help families meet basic needs.
- Invest in affordable housing to reduce financial stress.
- Expand free childcare and parental leave so parents can balance work and family life.
Happier countries recognise that economic stability is a foundation for well-being, not just for individuals but for society as a whole.
3. Prioritise mental health support
Mental health services in the UK are under severe strain, with long waiting times and limited access to support. Meanwhile, countries like Finland have invested in early mental health education, workplace support, and accessible therapy services.
To improve well-being, the UK should:
- Expand NHS mental health services, making therapy more widely available.
- Introduce mental health education in schools to help children build emotional resilience.
- Encourage businesses to offer workplace counselling and stress management programmes.
A society that prioritises mental well-being from childhood through adulthood is likely to be a happier one.
4. Encourage a better work-life balance
Nordic countries often work fewer hours yet report higher productivity and satisfaction. In Denmark and the Netherlands, flexible working, strong parental leave policies, and generous holiday allowances contribute to well-being.
The UK could improve by:
- Trialling a four-day workweek, which has already shown positive results in UK pilot schemes.
- Expanding flexible working rights, so employees can choose schedules that suit them.
- Investing in public spaces and community initiatives, making it easier for people to socialise and enjoy leisure time.
When people have more time for family, hobbies, and rest, their overall happiness increases.
Could the UK climb the happiness index?
The UK has the potential to become a happier nation, but it requires a shift in priorities. By reducing stress in education, strengthening social support, improving mental health care, and promoting work-life balance, the country could follow the example of Finland and its Nordic neighbours.
