Do you struggle to be happy? Many of us are.

The latest World Happiness Report, released by the United Nations in March, surveyed people from 143 countries and regions and saw Hong Kong drop to 86th place from 82nd in the ranking.

Anxiety and depression are affecting more of us in this post-pandemic era, and there are other factors, experts say.

“The increased stress of modern life, societal pressures and the impact of technology on relationships all play a role,” says Hong Kong psychologist Dr Adrian Low. “Meanwhile, the fast-paced, often shallow nature of contemporary life can lead to feelings of isolation and disconnection, making it harder for people to find lasting happiness.”

Happiness is more than an emotion, Low adds—it’s a state of contentment and fulfillment, and it’s linked to a sense of purpose, connection, and overall well-being.

How we live is important to how we feel. In 1960, not long before his death, Swiss psychoanalyst Carl Jung shared five “pillars” that he believed could help support a happy life. We present them below, with expert advice on how to get them.