Why Is Mental Illness So Common (and On the Rise)?

There are roughly 1.2 billion people in the world today struggling with a mental health condition. According to a new report, published in May 2026, this figure represents more than a 95% increase in the prevalence of mental illness since 1990. Disorders such as depression and anxiety are contributing to a significant proportion of the spike.

This begs the question: Why is mental illness on the rise? Put another way, why is mental illness so common now, versus decades before?

In order to answer these, we must first understand who is most affected by mental illness today.

Who is Most Impacted by Mental Illness?

According to the new survey, which is based on the latest data from the Global Burden of Diseases, Injuries, and Risk Factors (GBD), there are a couple of key demographics affected by the rising mental health issues across the globe. These include:

Women:

For years, research has confirmed that females are more likely to be affected by mental illness than their male counterparts. Specifically, conditions like anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are more common in females than males.

The reason women are disproportionately affected by mental illness is multifaceted. Notably, women experience much higher rates of abuse and trauma than men, which inevitably contributes to higher rates of mental illness. Additionally, factors like biological makeup, stress, and social pressures cause a higher risk of mental health conditions in women.

Young People:

Individuals between the ages of 15 and 39 were reported to be the most affected by mental illness today. The GBD-informed report found that mental illness has peaked among teenagers between the ages of 15 and 19 years old. However, this is a shift from what the GBD typically finds—prior surveys found peaks in middle-aged individuals.

Why is this the case? The report explains that younger people are more vulnerable to mental illness. Their brains are going through an important period of development, and disruptions in that process can increase their risk of mental health conditions.

Another study, published by the National Institute of Health, confirmed that Generation Z (Gen Z) is also disproportionately affected by mental illness—with markedly higher rates of depression and self-harm than other age groups. Millennials also show signs of decreased mental health, along with Boomers, but the younger generations are more significantly affected.

Why is Mental Illness on the Rise?

Mental illness has been increasing for years, even before the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2023, the year evaluated in this report, anxiety disorders reached their peak. Depression increased during the COVID-19 crisis, too, and has not returned to pre-pandemic rates. So, why is this the case?

Reduced Stigma:

One obvious reason for the rise in mental health conditions? More people are talking about it! Mental health used to be a quieted conversation, but nowadays, people are more likely to have open conversations about their experiences and struggles. The topic, as a whole, is more welcomed and understood than ever. As explained by Dr. Robert Trestman, chair of the American Psychiatric Association, “The stigma of mental illness has been substantially reduced — people are much more comfortable coming forward, as opposed to suffering in silence.”

Improved Detection and Diagnosis:

As iterated by the CEO of the American Psychological Association, Dr. Arthur Evans, the detection and diagnosis of mental health conditions have improved over time. Science, medicine, and research have advanced significantly over the years, allowing reports to capture higher numbers than in years’ past.

Increases in Trauma:

On the negative side, mental health disorders are increasing alongside rates of trauma and abuse. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), more than two-thirds of children experience a traumatic event by age 16—and trauma (particularly in the younger years) is a clear-contributor to mental health issues long-term.

Economic Instability:

Financial stress has become a growing concern for individuals and families alike. Rising costs of living, inflation, housing insecurity, student loan debt, and job instability have led to increased stress and negative mental health effects. This economic uncertainty has also contributed to feelings of hopelessness, burnout, anxiety, and depression. Younger people, in particular, are struggling to navigate financial pressures as they try to build careers, afford housing, and plan for the future.

Higher Academic Pressures:

Today, students face often intense academic and extracurricular expectations. From a young age, many students feel pressure to achieve high grades, excel in sports or activities, get accepted into college, and have a good grasp on their future—all while balancing a social/family life. This constant pressure to perform can contribute to chronic stress, anxiety, burnout, sleep deprivation, and feelings of inadequacy.

Social Media:

Social media has made a measurable impression on our lives, contributing to the rise in mental health issues. Particularly for young people, 95% of whom use a social media platform, social media has the potential to disrupt their mental stability and state. According to a recent survey, teenagers spend about 3.5 hours per day, on average, scrolling social media. And almost half of these teens agreed that social media made them “feel worse” about themselves and their body image. This is a result of the inherent “social comparison” that comes from these platforms—users compare themselves to influencers and only see the good snapshots of others’ lives, causing a sense of failure and inadequacy.

Declining Social Connection:

For years, social interaction has been declining. This is partially a result of the increase in social media use, but also due to digital communication as a whole. With more people working from home, enrolling in online learning programs, playing video games, and scrolling social media, there’s less opportunity for real human connection. According to a recent study, we’re amidst a “friendship recession” – marked by a drop in close friendships, an increase in loneliness, and a higher risk of mental illness.

Social Injustice:

Social injustice is prominent in many communities today, causing hardship and trauma across many different demographics. Most affected are those in minority groups, who may get bullied, discriminated against, or targeted in threats. These injustices largely affect (and create significant stress) across our youth, who now have to worry about gun violence, racism, climate change, inequality, cyberbullying, and other social issues.

Political Conflict and Polarization:

Political turmoil, polarization, and warfare are macro factors that can contribute to high levels of stress and worry in populations young and old. Constant stress, in turn, can lead to mental health issues—highlighting a possible connection between current events and the rise of mental illness.

A lot of these factors are hitting youth particularly hard. According to a study from the APA, Gen Z (who is most affected by mental health disorders today) is more concerned about mass shootings, climate change, global warming, sexual harassment, and social injustices (like separation of immigrant families) than adults overall.

Learn more about the reasons teen mental health is declining, here.

What Can We Do About the Rising Mental Health Concerns?

The increase in mental health conditions is a clear call for increased mental health services and support. As explained by the authors of the new GBD study, “Responding to the mental health needs of our global population, especially those most vulnerable, is an obligation, not a choice.”

For individuals suffering from mental health issues, or for people whose loved ones may be suffering, the most important thing you can do at this moment is to seek professional help. Mental health conditions can exacerbate over time, and contribute to an array of other issues when left untreated. The good news is that they can be treated, managed, and overcome with the proper support.

A mental health treatment provider can help you understand your options for therapy and develop a personalized plan for you or your loved one. Turnbridge, for example, is a mental health treatment provider specializing in the experiences of adolescents and young adults. If someone you love is suffering, you can always reach out to us for help.

Contact us at 877-581-1793 today to start the conversation.