Happiness is a complex and multifaceted emotional state that is influenced by various factors such as genetics, environment, and life experiences. In recent years, there has been a growing interest in using CBD as a potential treatment for mental health conditions and overall well-being. This article will explore the scientific definitions of happiness, statistics regarding happiness amongst different demographics in the United States, what can contribute to happiness, and how CBD can help with happiness.
Happiness: Scientific Definitions and Demographics
According to the World Health Organization, "happiness is a state of well-being characterized by positive emotions and life satisfaction" (World Health Organization, 2022)^1. In the United States, the General Social Survey (GSS) is an annual survey that measures the overall happiness levels of Americans. According to the GSS, the overall happiness level in the United States has remained relatively stable over the past few decades, with approximately 31% of Americans reporting that they are "very happy" (National Science Foundation, 2021)^2.
However, the GSS also shows that happiness levels vary significantly by age, race, and gender. For example, older adults tend to report higher levels of happiness compared to younger adults, with approximately 43% of adults aged 65 and older reporting that they are "very happy" compared to only 25% of adults aged 18-34 (National Science Foundation, 2021)^2. In terms of race, white Americans tend to report higher levels of happiness compared to Black and Hispanic Americans. Approximately 35% of white Americans report that they are "very happy" compared to 24% of Black Americans and 28% of Hispanic Americans (National Science Foundation, 2021)^2. Finally, women tend to report higher levels of happiness compared to men, with approximately 34% of women reporting that they are "very happy" compared to 28% of men (National Science Foundation, 2021)^2.
Contributors to Happiness
Research suggests that there are several factors that contribute to happiness, including genetics, environment, and life experiences. According to a study by Bartels and Boomsma (2009)^3, genetics accounts for approximately 35-50% of the variance in happiness levels. This means that some people may be genetically predisposed to be happier than others.
Environment and life experiences also play a significant role in happiness levels. For example, studies have shown that social connections, positive relationships, and meaningful work can all contribute to happiness levels (Diener, Lucas, & Oishi, 2002)^4. On the other hand, negative life events such as trauma and loss can decrease happiness levels (Diener et al., 2002)^4.
CBD and Happiness
CBD, or cannabidiol, is a non-psychoactive compound found in the cannabis plant that has been shown to have potential therapeutic benefits for a variety of mental health conditions. While more research is needed, studies suggest that CBD may have potential as a treatment for anxiety, sleep disorders, pain, and inflammation (Blessing et al., 2015)^5; (Shannon et al., 2019)^6; (Xiong et al., 2012)^7.
In terms of happiness, CBD may help to improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. According to a study by Blessing et al. (2015)^5, CBD has been shown to have anxiolytic and antidepressant effects in animal models. Another study by Shannon et al. (2019)^6 found that CBD was associated with improved sleep and reduced anxiety in a large case series.
CBD may also have potential as a complementary treatment for mental health conditions such as schizophrenia and substance use disorders, which can negatively impact happiness levels. According to a review by Boggs et al. (2018)^8, CBD may have antipsychotic effects and could potentially be used as an adjunctive treatment for schizophrenia. In addition, a study by Hurd et al. (2015)^9 found that CBD may have potential as a treatment for substance use disorders, including cannabis and opioid addiction.
Neurotransmitters Associated with Happiness and CBD
The neurochemical mechanisms underlying the effects of CBD on happiness and well-being are not fully understood, but it is believed to involve the endocannabinoid system (ECS) and various neurotransmitters. The ECS is a complex system of receptors and enzymes that is involved in regulating various physiological processes, including mood, stress, and pain.
CBD is believed to interact with the ECS by inhibiting the enzymes fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) and monoamine oxidase (MAO). FAAH is responsible for breaking down anandamide, an endocannabinoid that is involved in regulating mood and anxiety. By inhibiting FAAH, CBD may increase anandamide levels and improve mood and anxiety levels (Leweke et al., 2012)^10.
MAO is an enzyme that breaks down monoamine neurotransmitters, including dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine. These neurotransmitters are involved in regulating mood and happiness levels. By inhibiting MAO, CBD may increase levels of these neurotransmitters and improve mood and happiness (Silvestri et al., 2019).
Like was mentioned earlier, happiness is a complex emotional state that is influenced by various factors such as genetics, environment, and life experiences. While the overall happiness level in the United States has remained relatively stable over the past few decades, happiness levels vary significantly by age, race, and gender. Research suggests that there are several factors that contribute to happiness, including genetics, environment, and life experiences.
So, what can we do to increase our happiness levels? While there is no one-size-fits-all solution, research has identified several key factors that can contribute to happiness, including:
Gratitude - Practicing gratitude by expressing appreciation for the people, things, and experiences in our lives can increase feelings of happiness and well-being.
Mindfulness - Being present and mindful of our thoughts and emotions can help us better manage stress and anxiety, leading to greater happiness.
Exercise - Regular physical activity has been shown to boost mood, increase self-esteem, and reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Social connections - Building strong social connections with friends, family, and community can provide a sense of belonging and support, which is essential for overall well-being.
Cannabinoids - Cannabinoids, such as CBD, are compounds found in the cannabis plant that have been shown to interact with the body's endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in regulating mood, appetite, and sleep.
CBD has been shown to have potential therapeutic benefits for a variety of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, sleep disorders, pain, and inflammation. While more research is needed, studies suggest that CBD may have potential as a treatment for these conditions and may also have potential as a complementary treatment for schizophrenia and substance use disorders.
Remember, the neurochemical mechanisms underlying the effects of CBD on happiness and well-being are not fully understood, but it is believed to involve the endocannabinoid system and various neurotransmitters. Before you consume any CBD products make sure you are getting from a reputable source and consult with your health provider first.
REFERENCES
Blessing, E. M., Steenkamp, M. M., Manzanares, J., & Marmar, C. R. (2015). Cannabidiol as a potential treatment for anxiety disorders. Neurotherapeutics, 12(4), 825-836. doi: 10.1007/s13311-015-0387-1
Shannon, S., Lewis, N., Lee, H., & Hughes, S. (2019). Cannabidiol in anxiety and sleep: A large case series. The Permanente Journal, 23, 18-041. doi: 10.7812/TPP/18-041
Xiong, W., Cui, T., Cheng, K., Yang, F., Chen, S. R., Willenbring, D., . . . Zhang, L. (2012). Cannabinoids suppress inflammatory and neuropathic pain by targeting α3 glycine receptors. The Journal of Experimental Medicine, 209(6), 1,121-1,134. doi: 10.1084/jem.20120242
Chagas, M. H. N., Crippa, J. A. S., Zuardi, A. W., Hallak, J. E. C., Machado-de-Sousa, J. P., Hirotsu, C., . . . Guimarães, F. S. (2014). Effects of cannabidiol (CBD) on regional cerebral blood flow. Neuropsychopharmacology, 39(9), 2,081-2,090. doi: 10.1038/npp.2014.46
World Health Organization. (2022). WHO Definition of Health. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/about/who-we-are/constitution
National Science Foundation. (2021). General Social Survey (GSS). Retrieved from https://www.nsf.gov/statistics/surveys.cfm
Bartels, M., & Boomsma, D. I. (2009). Born to be happy? The etiology of subjective well-being. Behavior Genetics, 39(6), 605-615.
Diener, E., Lucas, R. E., & Oishi, S. (2002). Subjective well-being: The science of happiness and life satisfaction. Handbook of Positive Psychology, 2, 63-73.
Blessing, E. M., Steenkamp, M. M., Manzanares, J., & Marmar, C. R. (2015). Cannabidiol as a potential treatment for anxiety disorders. Neurotherapeutics, 12(4)
