1. Introduction

Happiness is defined as that based on the transformation from an external circumstance to an internal emotional condition, and comprises emotional, rational, ethical and pragmatic components [1]. Happiness is understood as an intangible concept – state of mind, positive feeling, carelessness, life satisfaction, and life completeness [2], well-being, bliss, luck, destiny [3], peace, joy, overcoming difficulties, enjoyment in life, the opportunity to be loved, anticipation of the future, and health [4], nature enjoyment, home, family, travel, return to home [5].

Happiness embraces the career-related semantic components: contentment, well-being, life satisfaction, success, good luck, fortune, destiny, fate, pleasure, contentment, the desire to do something [6], good quality of life – satisfaction with oneself, positive life perception, energy, positive self-assessment, high self-esteem [7], achieving success [8; 9], money, success [10], success and glory [11], success, good luck, fortune, abundance of food [12], career, high status, fame and recognition, leadership positions, apartments, cars, travel [13].

Self-improvement, with reliance on activity-based perfectionism, is a conscious process of personal development, a trend set in the modern social environment [14; 15] – a path to achieving perfection through consistent work on oneself in all aspects: mental, physical, moral, and professional [16]. Self-improvement at work, or perfectionism, is a form of happiness since it leads to professional growth, increased self-esteem, and a stronger sense of competence and fulfillment [17]. Moreover, perfectionism is expected by employers as a positive quality contributing to enhancing corporate morale and strengthening performance due to the positive attitude to work commitments and elevated ambitions [18]. Happiness in the workplace is understood as competence growth, improved performance, valuable contribution and recognition [19] – which are possible due to perfectionism at work [20]. Happiness as a social phenomenon is associated with wealth, harmony, equality, freedom, legality, integrity, work commitment and dedication, resulting in economic development [21]. A positive psychological atmosphere is crucial for organizational morale maintenance and keeping team spirit at a sufficient level [22].

2. Materials and methods

The aim of this study is to investigate happiness as a subject of research and identify key conceptual relationships with related phenomena. Research discourse^[1] served as the material for the research. The volume of the research material amounted to a hundred of research papers which were selected by the keyword ‘happiness’. Research article titles and abstracts were analyzed for key conceptual connections, semantically related to happiness. It was found that happiness is a subject of research analysis in many fields of science. The results of the conducted analysis, presented below, reflect the main semantic relationships, some of them are provided with references to the research articles devoted to happiness. The material was examined with the help of discourse analysis, semantic relationship analysis, semantic categorization, constructive analysis and happiness concept design.

3. Findings

The obtained results provide an overview of a professional view of happiness which exceeds the framework of a traditional approach to the concept as a subjective attitude to life and embraces more social aspects aimed at improving perception of the social environment in the collective mind of population. Happiness is in the focus of psychological, sociological, environmental and medical research. In the area of psychology happiness is characterised by connections opposite in meaning, for example, depressed mood; anxiety; depression; adverse childhood; negative thoughts. In the other areas, happiness semantically lateral connections, such as income, consumption, digitalization, brand management, park management, health, body mass index.

3.1. Psychological view

Happiness in the field of psychology is considered in relation to various adverse mental conditions which interfere with normal course of life and disrupt the attitude towards life from within the human mind, for example, depression, anxiety, or negative automatic thoughts (NATs). A person dominated by NATs is likely to struggle to experience happiness because their internal monologue is consistently focusing on negative aspects of themselves and their environment [23]. Depression is characterized by persistent sadness, loss of interest in activities, and feelings of hopelessness, all of which are antithetical to happiness. Extreme anxiety is incompatible with happiness; however, moderate levels might have specific links to it.

Mental health encompasses emotional, psychological, and social well-being. Individuals with good mental health are better equipped to manage stress, form healthy relationships, and experience positive emotions, all of which contribute to overall happiness. Happiness is not about constant euphoria; instead, it is about having a healthy balance of emotions, including the ability to experience and cope with negative emotions in a constructive way. Emotional regulation skills, such as strategies for managing stress and expressing oneself healthily, are crucial for maintaining happiness in the face of life’s inevitable challenges.

Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) like abuse, neglect, and household dysfunction significantly decrease the likelihood of experiencing happiness in adulthood [24]. Adolescence is a period of significant psychological change and challenges, often resulting to the instability of happiness; positive mental health and healthy support systems and mechanisms could be helpful. Young adults are often focused on establishing careers, forming intimate relationships, and achieving financial independence. These transitions can be both exciting and stressful. Happiness during this period is often tied to goal attainment, relationship satisfaction, and a sense of purpose.

Theories of human development, for instance, Erikson’s stages of psychosocial development, suggest that our experiences and challenges at different life stages influence our sense of well-being and happiness. Positive experiences, supportive relationships, and successful resolution of developmental tasks contribute to a greater capacity for happiness. Optimism is associated with greater resilience to stress, improved problem-solving abilities, and a greater likelihood of pursuing goals. Optimists are often more proactive in creating positive experiences and are better at appreciating the good things in their lives. Optimism fosters a sense of hope and possibility, which are essential for experiencing happiness.

3.2. Sociological view

From the sociological view happiness is considered through social values for individuals and groups. Happiness lies in successful adaptation to various circumstances. In the modern environment with integrated digitalized tools, robots and artificial intelligence happiness implies increased convenience, access to information, automation of tedious and monotonous tasks, new forms of entertainment, and potential for improved healthcare [25]. Smart urbanism has a substantial potential for happiness owing to more efficient infrastructure, better services such as transportation, waste management, safer environments, smart lighting, security systems, and improved access to information. Daily happiness is built on purposeful, enjoyable, and meaningful activities which contribute to achieving a sense of fulfillment.

High levels of public trust in institutions – government, law enforcement, media – are linked to higher levels of social cohesion and a sense of security. When people trust their institutions, they feel more confident about the future and less anxious about potential threats. Happiness is expressed through increased opportunities for advancement and improvement in social status, associated with greater financial security, access to better resources, and a sense of accomplishment. The opportunity to improve family-related economic circumstances is perceived as happiness.

Strong social networks, supportive relationships, and a sense of belonging are fundamental to happiness. They are complemented by freedom from work-related stress, more time for leisure activities, and opportunities to pursue personal interests. Scientific research into middle-aged women’s happiness is closely related to their ability to navigate multi-tasking – career, family, health – meeting societal expectations [26]. Happiness is influenced by their ability to successfully maintain multi-faceted social connections.

3.3. Environmental view

Street greenery – grass, flowers, bushes, trees, green walls – can transform urban environments, making them more aesthetic; reduce air pollution, and provide shade. Parks give opportunities for recreation, relaxation, and social interaction. Well-designed urban parks, productive farmlands are associated with positive emotions and happiness [27]. In addition, green areas offer opportunities for various recreational activities like hiking, camping, and nature walks. Effective park management is essential for ensuring that parks are accessible, safe, and enjoyable for all demographics. Parks can also play a vital role in conserving biodiversity and habitat for wildlife.

Green disparities, i.e. unequal access to green spaces, clean air, and healthy environments, can have serious consequences for physical and mental health, undermining happiness in disadvantaged communities. Addressing green disparities through policies of green equity is essential for promoting social justice and overall happiness. Access to forests, even visual access, is strongly linked to reduced stress, improved mood, and increased feelings of happiness. The aesthetic beauty of forests, the sense of tranquility, and the connection to nature all contribute to positive mental health outcomes.

Climate change represents a major threat to future well-being. Climate finance used effectively, aims to mitigate these risks and promote adaptation measures, which can provide a sense of hope and security, reducing climate anxiety and fostering a more optimistic outlook [28]. Climate finance can support the transition to a more sustainable economy, creating new jobs, promoting innovation, and improving overall quality of life, contributing to happiness by fostering a sense of purpose and progress towards a better future. Furthermore, climate finance addresses the disproportionate impacts on vulnerable communities.

Eco-tourism focuses on responsible travel that conserves the environment and supports local communities. This form of travel can promote happiness by providing a sense of purpose and contributing to positive social and environmental outcomes. Supporting biodiversity and preserving natural ecosystems promotes ecological health and contributes to the overall quality of life. Additionally, choosing sustainable travel options (public transport, local accommodation, reducing waste) can align travel with values of environmental responsibility [29], potentially leading to more authentic happiness.

3.4. Medical view

Physiologically, happiness is associated with the release of specific neurotransmitters in the brain, such as dopamine (associated with reward and pleasure), serotonin (responsible for mood regulation), and endorphins (stimulating pain relief and euphoria). Other positive emotions, like gratitude and love, are linked to different neurochemical profiles (e.g., oxytocin). Measuring these chemicals can provide a physiological snapshot of emotional states. Neuroimaging studies reveal that happiness and positive emotions are associated with increased activity in specific brain regions, such as the prefrontal cortex (associated with decision-making and emotional regulation) and the amygdala (involved in processing emotions). Happiness can also influence physiological indicators such as heart rate variability (HRV, a measure of the variation in time intervals between heartbeats, can reflect the body’s ability to respond to stress), blood pressure, and cortisol levels (a stress hormone) [30]. Higher HRV and lower cortisol levels are often associated with better well-being.

Access to quality healthcare is essential for preventing and treating illness, managing chronic conditions, and promoting overall well-being. Lack of such access, on the other hand, can lead to physical and mental health problems that negatively impact happiness. Healthcare models, prioritizing patient-centeredness and focusing on individual needs, preferences, and values of patients, enhance satisfaction, improve health outcomes, and positively influence happiness. Investing in preventative healthcare measures, such as screenings, vaccinations, and health education, are likely to prevent illness and promote long-term health and well-being, ultimately contributing to greater happiness.

The relationship between happiness and body mass index (BMI) is complex and not necessarily linear. While some studies suggest that happiness can lead to healthier lifestyle choices (exercise, balanced diet) and therefore lower BMI, others suggest the opposite [31].

Good oral health – healthy teeth and gums, fresh breath – contributes to self-esteem and confidence [32], which in turn positively influences mood and happiness. Oral health issues – tooth decay, gum disease, bad breath – provoke social anxiety and avoidance, negatively impacting social interactions and reducing opportunities for happiness.

Pain, especially chronic pain, is a radical opposite to happiness, interfering with daily activities, reducing quality of life, and causing depression, anxiety, and social isolation [33]. While pain medication can provide temporary relief, the opioid crisis highlights the potential dangers of relying solely on pharmacological solutions. Opioids can lead to addiction, overdose, and other negative consequences that diminish happiness on its own.

Individuals with restricted health opportunities face with significant challenges; nevertheless, many individuals with disabilities report high levels of happiness and life satisfaction, which underscores the importance of adaptation, resilience, and social support in maintaining well-being despite physical limitations [34]. Moreover, social inclusion and access to education, employment, and recreation, are crucial for promoting happiness and well-being of individuals with disabilities.

Studies of aging and happiness reveal significant cultural variations, for example, older adults in Japan and some European countries report higher levels of happiness and life satisfaction compared to older adults in other parts of the world [35]. Strong social networks, family connections, and community involvement are important predictors of happiness in older age. Maintaining a sense of purpose and meaning in life – through volunteering, hobbies, or creative pursuits – is equally crucial for promoting well-being in older age.

Healthy longevity focuses on promoting health and preventing disease throughout the lifespan, with the goal of extending both lifespan and healthspan, or the number of years lived in good health. This translates to increased opportunities for happiness. Understanding the value of healthy habits since young age prevents chronic diseases and improves overall quality of life, leading to a longer and happier life. Intrinsic capacity (IC), a measure of an individual’s physical and mental capabilities, plays an important role in maintaining functionality in older age. In addition, resilience is the ability to bounce back from adversity and adapt to challenging life circumstances [36], being a buffer against stress, trauma, and illness; therefore, resilience is a key factor in maintaining well-being and happiness.

4. Conclusion

To summarize, happiness is a multifaceted concept influenced by social, psychological, marketing, ecological, and medical factors. Psychologically, happiness involves managing mental health and mitigating depression, anxiety, and negative automatic thoughts. Cultivating optimism and developing coping mechanisms for depressed mood are crucial. In the field of sociology, happiness originates from a sense of supportive neighborhood environments, public trust, access to free education, and livability in urban settings, balanced with healthy daily activities. From the ecological perspective, access to forest cover, green spaces, and managed parks, combined with street greenery, contributes to happiness by providing stress-reducing environments and improving air quality. Protecting the landscape and promoting clean energy are fundamental for a healthier, happier society. Addressing green disparities ensures equitable access to these benefits. Utilizing climate finance to promote ecological balance increases ecosystem services, reduces harmful emissions like CO₂, and ultimately contributes to long-term well-being. As a medical phenomenon, happiness is linked to physical health and well-being, including maintaining a healthy body mass index, addressing oral health, and managing pain. Access to quality healthcare and utilizing health technology are essential. Promoting resilience and understanding the effects of aging and disability are crucial for maintaining a high level of intrinsic capacity.

[1] Happiness. [Electronic research]. URL: https://www.sciencedirect.com/ (accessed: 17.09.2025)