Younger Americans are significantly more likely than older adults to report struggling with their mental health, according to new research released by Pew Research Center during Mental Health Awareness Month.
The survey found 22% of U.S. adults describe their mental health as fair or poor, while nearly half — 48% — rate it as excellent or very good. But the sharpest divide appeared by age, with adults under 30 four times more likely than seniors 65 and older to report poor mental health. Among younger adults, 36% described their mental health negatively, compared with just 9% of older Americans.
Income also played a major role in how Americans rated their mental health. About one-third of lower-income adults said their mental health was fair or poor, compared with 19% of middle-income adults and 13% of upper-income adults.
Despite the concerns, most Americans said they are actively trying to improve their mental health. Thirty-six percent reported putting “a lot” of effort into caring for their mental well-being, while another 49% said they were putting in at least some effort.
The research found Americans are generally most comfortable discussing mental health with close personal connections. Fifty-seven percent said they would feel comfortable talking to a close friend, 52% said an immediate family member, and 50% said a therapist. Far fewer said they would feel comfortable talking with neighbors or co-workers.
Among married adults or those living with a partner, nearly 8 in 10 said they would feel comfortable discussing mental health with their significant other.
The report also highlighted growing concern among teenagers and parents. More than one-third of teens ages 13 to 17 said they are extremely or very concerned about the mental health of teenagers today, while a majority of parents said the same.
Teen girls expressed higher levels of concern than boys, according to the survey. Black teens and Black parents also reported greater concern about teen mental health than white or Hispanic respondents.
Researchers found teens are generally more comfortable talking about mental health with parents and friends than with therapists or teachers.
The findings are based on multiple Pew Research Center surveys conducted between 2024 and 2025 examining attitudes toward mental health, emotional well-being, and support systems in the United States.
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