The Dutch are spending less time awake at night worrying about their health or finances and they are feeling happier than they did a year ago, according to new research by the national lottery.

In total, 40% of people say they are happier this year than in 2013, while 19% are less happy.

The Dutch are more worried about becoming a victim of terrorism, prompted by the rise of IS and the downing of flight MH17 in Ukraine. However, closer to home worries concerning income, health, family and friends are preoccupying them more, the research shows.

The national lottery carries out research into how happy the Dutch are feeling every six months.

‘It is worth pointing out that only one in 10 people are still concerned about the economic crisis, compared with one in five a year ago,’ spokesman Arjan van ‘t Veer told the Telegraaf. ‘Nevertheless, just 14% of us think we will leave the recession completely behind in 2015.’

The research shows over three-quarters of the Dutch regard the MH17 crash as the event which had most impact on their lives this year.

Dutch sporting success in 2014 was a major driver of feelings of good fortune. The Dutch medal haul at the winter Olympics and the football team coming third in the World Cup are cited as some of the happiest moments of the year.