A major new study has revealed that one in three 18- to 24-year-olds now report symptoms of common mental health problems such as depression or anxiety, up from one in four in 2000. The research, conducted by the Resolution Foundation thinktank and funded by the Health Foundation charity, analysed longitudinal data to track changes over time.
Charlie McCurdy, one of the report's authors, said the finding is backed by evidence of rising antidepressant prescriptions, increased self-harm among young women, and more disability claims from young people. He noted that the trend predates the pandemic, with a starker increase seen in 2017.
Nil Guzelgun of Mind pointed to possible causes including the cost of living crisis, lockdowns, wars, climate anxiety, school pressure, social media, and insecure work. “We really need a concerted effort to address public mental health needs,” she said.
The study challenges stereotypes of lazy ‘snowflakes’, instead highlighting genuine distress. Experts say greater awareness and reduced stigma may explain part of the rise, but not all. The report calls for urgent action to tackle the root causes of the epidemic affecting Gen Z and millennials.
