According to a global survey on mental well-being, the United Kingdom ranks as the second most miserable country in the world, with only one former Soviet republic scoring lower. The Mental State of the World Report, compiled by Sapien Labs, highlights that wealth and economic growth do not guarantee improved mental health. While nations like the Dominican Republic, Sri Lanka, and Tanzania were rated positively, the UK and Australia found themselves at the bottom of the list.
In an effort to uncover the reality of life in a nation deemed even more depressing than the UK, YouTuber Wendall traveled from Walsall to the capital of Uzbekistan, Tashkent. What he discovered was a vibrant community filled with warmth and enthusiasm, a stark contrast to the perceptions he had before his trip.
Unexpected Positivity in Uzbekistan
Wendall’s journey of over 4,000 miles required a stop in Turkey, where he experienced a £12 pint at 5 a.m. Upon arriving in Tashkent, he found the cost of living remarkably affordable compared to the UK. His £60-a-night hotel was luxurious by comparison, defying the notion of austerity associated with post-Soviet nations.
“On the surface, this seems a nation very much on the up, now open for tourism and business like never before,” Wendall noted. Visitors to Tashkent are treated to a lively atmosphere, with residents engaging in activities such as archery in city parks. The city also boasts markets where unique items, including intricately designed knives, are sold—items that would likely not be permitted in UK urban areas.
Wendall observed a significant difference in the attitudes of locals compared to those he met in Walsall, where residents expressed concerns about rising crime rates. One individual shared that he had felt compelled to cry while watching the news, reflecting a pervasive sense of unease.
Life in Tashkent: A Contrast to the UK
In Tashkent, Wendall encountered locals eager to share their stories and experiences. One resident remarked, “You can say that it changed a lot in terms of education, politics, and freedom. There is no war. It’s peaceful.” This perspective highlights a transformation in Uzbekistan over the past decade, as wages rise and many expatriates return home, drawn back by improved living conditions.
The subway system in Tashkent was another pleasant surprise for Wendall, who found it cleaner and more architecturally interesting than the London Underground. The fare structure is also far more economical, enhancing the overall experience of navigating the city.
The bustling street markets offered a variety of affordable food options, with a simple stuffed flatbread priced at 5,000 som, equivalent to around £0.30. For slightly more, visitors can enjoy a plate of plov, the national dish of Uzbekistan, which, while not to Wendall’s taste, is certainly budget-friendly. Even a glass of brandy at an upscale bar costs just £1.50, adding to the appeal of the local hospitality.
Despite the survey’s findings, Wendall left Uzbekistan with a sense of joy and fulfillment. “It’s the supposedly most miserable, depressing country in the world — the only country more depressed than the UK. Well, I’ve met some wonderful people. I’ve been met with nothing but smiles, hospitality, and a welcome I’ll never forget,” he stated.
Wendall’s experience in Uzbekistan challenges preconceived notions about happiness and well-being, suggesting that the metrics used to assess mental health may not fully capture the complexities of life in different cultures. His journey serves as a reminder that every country has its stories and its people, revealing that joy can often be found in the most unexpected places.
