Younger adults facing more mental distress than older gen: Study

THE ANALYSIS IDENTIFIES ISSUES LIKE SCREEN TIME, AND EXPOSURE TO NEUROTOXIC CHEMICALS IN FOOD AMONG REASONS FOR THIS DETERIORATION

- Rhythma Kaul

NEW DELHI: The 20s and 30s are the new 50s for mental health, a new analysis of global mental health has claimed, pointing out that there is a significant decline in the mental wellbeing of young adults (those in the 18-34 years age group), with many exhibiting high levels of distress compared to older adults (those aged 55 and above).

The analysis identifies lifestyle — screen time, isolation, and exposure to neurotoxic chemicals in food — as the main reason for this deterioration.

The Sapien Labs report—The Mental State of the World in 2024 — presents a comprehensive analysis of global mental health trends, drawing from over 661,000 responses across 82 countries, including India.

"The overall picture is clear: in every region of the world, older adults are doing relatively well while younger generations are struggling. The only difference between countries is how far the Mind Health of their younger generations has declined. Some may simply be further along this downward trajectory than others," said the authors.