According to Gallup, in 2024, the level of anxiety among the adult population reached record highs: 39% experienced anxiety, 37% stress, 32% physical pain, 26% sadness, and 22% anger. These figures are significantly higher than before the onset of conflicts and the pandemic.
The highest levels of anger are observed in countries such as Chad (47%), Jordan (46%), Armenia (43%), Iraq (40%), Palestine (38%), and Iran (37%). These indicators are particularly high in regions suffering from conflicts and political instability.
Among the countries with the highest levels of anxiety are Sierra Leone (67%), Guinea (66%), Malta (61%), and Chad (60%). As for sadness, it is most commonly experienced by residents of Chad (58%), Sierra Leone (55%), Liberia, and Iran (41% each).
In the post-Soviet space, Ukraine recorded a record level of anxiety at 57%, which is linked to the ongoing conflict. In Armenia, the high levels of anger and sadness also reflect the complex political situation and social issues.
In Uzbekistan, on the contrary, some of the highest indicators of joy and life satisfaction in the world are observed—88%, placing the country on par with Denmark and Indonesia.
Anxiety and irritability in Turkey and the Middle East continue to remain at a crisis level, especially in those countries where conflicts are ongoing, such as Iran, Palestine, and Iraq. Gallup emphasizes that the state of people's emotional health is directly related to peace and stable governing institutions.
In regions with poor governance and violence, there is more pain, stress, and anger, whereas in places where there is safety and trust, people smile more often and show respect.
