Majority of Austrians happy, optimistic over future: survey

VIENNA, March 20 (Xinhua) -- Over 80 percent of Austrians consider themselves happy and most are optimistic about the future, a new survey revealed Tuesday.

The survey of 18 to 69-year-olds carried out in March by from market research group Integral showed that 81 percent of respondents considered themselves happy, while only 17 percent considered themselves unhappy.

Most of the surveyed were also optimistic about the future, with 38 percent anticipating that they will be happier five years from now, and 52 percent believing their status will remain unchanged.

The positive attitude is also held about family and friends, with 80 percent of respondents believing these people in their lives are also happy.

It is not carried over as much to their fellow citizens on the whole, however, with only 65 percent believing Austrians are happy, and 26 percent believing them to be unhappy.

When asked about the most important factors for happiness, health was indicated by 59 percent of respondents, followed by an intact family, a good partner, a nice home and general fun and joy in life.