“Are mental health problems increasing?” A close to Mental Health Awareness Month

As we bring Mental Health Awareness month to a close, we wanted to share some insight regarding the rise in mental health concerns. In recent years, the question “Are mental health problems increasing?” has become one of the most searched and discussed topics online—and for good reason. From rising anxiety levels to escalating rates of depression and burnout, many are witnessing a shift in how mental well-being is talked about and experienced. But is this perceived increase real, or simply a result of heightened awareness and more open dialogue?

Let’s unpack what’s behind the numbers—and the growing concern.

A Look at the Data

Multiple studies and public health reports indicate that mental health conditions are indeed becoming more common globally. According to the World Health Organization (WHO):

• Depression is now the leading cause of disability worldwide.

• Anxiety disorders affect over 300 million people globally.

• Since 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic has caused a 25% increase in the prevalence of anxiety and depression.

In the United States, the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) reports that nearly 1 in 5 adults lives with a mental illness. Among young people, the statistics are even more striking: the CDC found that over 40% of teens report feeling persistently sad or hopeless.

So What’s Going on?

There are many factors fueling this rise in mental health concerns. Among the most prevalent are:

1. Social Media and Comparison Culture

We often hear that social media is a bad thing and the leading cause of increased mental health concerns today. Many of us did not grow up in a world without technology, so it can be difficult to measure the impact that it has had on us personally, since we might not know ourselves without social media. Social media significantly contributes to comparison culture. This can be especially harmful to developing minds and bodies as young people try to figure out who they are in the world. We also know that influencers and even every day people only post a curated version of their body/home/environment, and yet, our brains automatically associate the images they see with your every day experiences, and of course it can never measure up. Believe it or not, while our brains are absolutely amazing in so many ways, they are not all that evolved to help us recognize unhelpful comparisons. The brain is designed to evaluate safety through comparison because throughout history, that’s how we survived. However, that same system is not so helpful with social media comparison.

Other social media concerns include cyberbullying, and overstimulation—all of which can negatively impact mental well-being, especially among adolescents and young adults.

Social media can be a wonderful tool to stay connected with old friends, or a place to make new ones. We at MTC know that social media isn’t going anywhere, and in so many ways it can enhance the lives of those around us. However, we need to be wise consumers to make sure that we recognize the signs when it becomes harmful.

2. Economic and Societal Pressures

There are so many areas in life that we need to consider. For so many, home ownership feels completely out of reach. Many are facing job insecurity and student debt. From planning and saving for retirement to climate anxiety, to mass school shootings and political concerns, today’s world presents unique and persistent stressors that previous generations may not have faced as intensely or as continuously. We know that the world we live in makes a huge impact on the way we feel and the resources we have available to support us. When people are feeling stressed financially and worried about external challenges, it can greatly impact mental health and wellness.

3. Global Crises

Need we say more? The COVID-19 pandemic rocked many of us to our core. It impacted the ways in which we could receive support. One of the strongest protective factors for mental health is social connection. However, COVID-19 took that away from so many people. From overworked and traumatized health care workers to teachers figuring out how to help their students learn, to small business owners struggling to make ends meet and parents figuring out how to work from home as well as parent/teach their children and everyone else in between, the pandemic impacted so many on so many levels. We also saw a shift in development for students who were no longer in school but learning in isolation online. This brought with its own challenges, along with the struggles to reintegrate back to in-person learning. Along with the pandemic, there have been so many political conflicts and environmental disasters such as the California wild fires, hurricanes and flooding have all taken a psychological toll on individuals and communities.

4. Better Awareness and Diagnosis

While there are so many reasons that mental health concerns are rising, it’s also important to consider that what we’re seeing may not only be an increase in problems, but also an increase in awareness. Social media has been helpful in this way because more people are becoming aware of their symptoms and the impact that depression, anxiety and other mental health concerns can have on overall wellness. There are more mainstream books, podcasts and TV shows that highlight mental health. As this increase in awareness takes hold, people are more likely to recognize symptoms, seek help, and receive a diagnosis than they were in past decades.

The Stigma Shift

The good news is that we are seeing a reduction in stigma surrounding mental health. Celebrities, athletes, and influencers speaking openly about their struggles have encouraged millions to do the same. Through increased access to effective skill building and communication, along with the mainstream media pushing mental health as important, we are truly seeing a reduction in stigma. This cultural shift makes it more likely for individuals to come forward and seek help—contributing to the appearance of rising numbers. Therapy is for everyone!

Final Thoughts

To answer your question, yes, mental health problems are increasing—but so is our ability to recognize the symptoms and receive support. As awareness grows, so does the opportunity to create a world that prioritizes mental well-being with the same urgency and care as physical health.

If you or someone you know is struggling, you’re not alone—and help is available. The therapists at Modern Thrive Counseling offer compassionate care rooted in modern techniques to help you thrive. We are currently accepting new clients. To learn more and get started, fill out our inquiry form and we’ll help you get matched with the right therapist to improve your mental health.