A sweeping international survey has raised fresh concerns about the mental well-being of young adults, finding that a significant share are experiencing declines in overall “mind health” across multiple life domains.
The findings, published in the Global Mind Health in 2025 by Sapien Labs, show that 41% of internet-enabled adults aged 18–34 report challenges affecting their emotional, cognitive, social and physical functioning.
The study draws on data from nearly one million respondents in 84 countries.
Researchers say the results reveal a widening generational gap, with younger adults performing worse than those over 55. However, several sub-Saharan African countries – including Ghana, Nigeria, Kenya, Zimbabwe and Tanzania – ranked among the strongest globally in youth mind health outcomes.
Lead author, Tara Thiagarajan, said the trend goes beyond traditional measures of depression and anxiety, pointing instead to broader declines in key life skills such as focus, emotional regulation and relationship management. The report links the shift to factors including early smartphone exposure, ultra-processed food consumption, weaker family bonds and reduced spirituality.
The study also urges policy responses, such as limiting smartphone use among children, restricting social media access by age, and expanding research into the impact of food additives.
Economist, David Blanchflower, warned that persistent mental health challenges among young adults could pose long-term risks to global economic stability.
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