Mental health struggles now hit young people hardest, says study

New research challenges the long-held belief of a midlife crisis, showing that mental distress is now highest among younger generations, not older adults. (Image: Pexels)

Midlife crisis, that notorious slump of stress, worry, and unhappiness in middle age, has been a familiar story for decades in human psychology. But new research shows that narrative is shifting dramatically. Today, it’s not middle-aged adults who are struggling most with mental health, it’s young people.

A recent study led by David Blanchflower of Dartmouth College, published in the open-access journal PLOS One, reveals that the well-known unhappiness hump, a rise in mental distress peaking in midlife, has all but disappeared in the United States, the United Kingdom, and across dozens of countries worldwide.

Earlier, happiness dipped in the 40s and 50s, then improved in later life. But new data tells a different story. Based on responses from millions of adults in the US and UK, researchers found that mental distress now steadily declines with age. The shift isn’t because midlife has become easier, it’s that younger people are struggling more than ever.

But why are young people struggling more?

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The reasons behind this shift are still being studied, but several factors may play a role:

•  The lingering effects of the 2008 Great Recession, which hit younger people’s job prospects hard
•  Underfunded mental health care systems struggling to meet growing demand
•  The COVID-19 pandemic’s toll on social connection, education, and stability
•  The rise of social media and its complex effects on self-esteem and anxiety

The National Institute of Mental Health suggests some coping strategies:

Write it out: Jotting down your thoughts can help you notice what’s bothering you and slowly shift your mindset.

Listen to your body: Tension and stress often show up as headaches, tight shoulders, or a heavy chest. Take a moment to notice where you are holding stress.

Try a calming app: Apps with breathing exercises or short meditations can help you slow down and feel more grounded, even in five minutes.

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Take care of the basics: Eat a good diet, move your body, cut back on caffeine and salt, and stick to a sleep routine. These small habits are helpful.

Talk to someone: A chat with a friend or loved one can ease your mind more than you realise. You’re not alone.

Ask for help if you need it: If things still feel heavy, talk to someone you trust or consult a professional. Do not shy away from sharing your problem with a therapist

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for a specific health diagnosis.