The belief that mental distress peaks in midlife is challenged by a new study involving nearly 2 million individuals across 44 countries, revealing that the “unhappiness hump” is fading. Instead, younger adults now report the highest levels of anxiety, depression and stress, while mental health tends to improve with age.
A worldwide phenomenon
This global shift is highlighted by data from extensive surveys in the US and UK, spanning more than two decades. Researchers attribute the change to factors including economic challenges facing the young, under-resourced mental health systems, lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the influence of social media.
The report
The results are published in PLOS One, an open-access journal published by Dartmouth College, New Hampshire. David Blanchflower, professor of economics, says the report marks a significant departure from previous trends, where mental distress peaked in midlife before declining. It signals a need to address the escalating mental health crisis among young people worldwide. The work of providers like tidaltraining.co.uk/mental-health-training-courses/milton-keynes/ is invaluable.
Youth mental health in the UK
A 2023 survey in the UK found that over 23% of 17-19 year-olds have a probable mental health condition. It is a national picture, not confined to cities where the triggers might seem more obvious. This is why mental health training courses Milton Keynes and Harrogate, for example, are as important as in the major cities.
As mental health struggles concentrate in younger populations, understanding and mitigating the underlying causes becomes critical. This demands heightened attention and resources to combat the global rise in youth wellbeing issues.
