International study: Youth mental health deteriorates despite economic prosperity - Sarmad
Researchers from Columbia University found a decline in youth psychological well-being in 92 countries, while indicators for the elderly improved.
Translated by Qiyas from سرمد — Original source
Scientists have found indications of declining mental well-being among populations in various countries, with particularly notable negative changes among young people.
These conclusions were reached by researchers from Columbia University after surveying approximately 50,000 individuals from 92 countries. The study’s findings were published in the journal Social Indicators Research.
The study revealed that the overall state of global mental health is concerning, affecting even the most economically prosperous nations.
Most frequently, young participants reported a lack of vitality, poor emotional stability, and difficulty coping with stress. These indicators among today’s youth are significantly worse than those reported by their peers in previous generations.
In contrast, older participants in the survey showed relatively positive results. Moreover, people generally rate their relationships with those around them and their sense of life’s meaning highly. These two aspects of mental well-being maintain high levels across people of all ages.
Participants were asked to answer ten questions reflecting different dimensions of mental health, such as feelings of competence, optimism, self-respect, positive emotions, engagement in life, and vitality. Additionally, the scientists examined the prevalence of stress, depression, and anxiety, as well as overall life satisfaction. Participants reported their age, income, education, and employment status. The survey was conducted primarily online.
Socioeconomic factors generally influenced well-being indicators. On average, employed participants reported better conditions than those who were unemployed, and higher income was associated with more positive outcomes. The researchers did not identify a clear threshold beyond which money ceases to affect mental health; on average, wealthier participants showed better indicators.
A positive correlation with education was also discovered. Individuals with only secondary education or no education at all often reported lower levels of well-being. Each subsequent level of education was accompanied by an improvement in indicators. Furthermore, participants who did not live alone rated their condition higher on average. Those working in a hybrid arrangement reported better conditions than remote workers.
Kai Ruggeri, a professor at Columbia University and the study’s lead author, stated, “The data obtained are not only a reason to call on authorities to pay attention to the mental health of young people and low-income individuals, but also an indication that certain population groups are already facing difficulties and feel that their capacity to cope with life’s challenges is weakening.”
