CNN Central News & Network-ITDC India Epress/ITDC News Bhopal: CNN Central News and Network – ITDC India ePress / ITDC News, भोपाल नई दिल्ली. Despite better education, digital facilities and expanding career options, the younger generation is facing challenges linked to mental health and life satisfaction. Gallup’s 2026 survey in the United States has found that satisfaction with life among Generation Z, or young people aged 18 to 29, has fallen significantly compared with previous years. According to the survey, only 44 percent of young people fall into the category of doing well in life and being in a positive position about the future. In 2010, this figure was 64 percent.
Gallup data show an increase in cases of depression. Among young people aged 18 to 29, the rate of those currently suffering from depression or associated with its treatment was recorded at 27 percent. This is an increase of 11 percentage points compared with 2019. The figure points to growing pressure on the mental health of young people. The survey also found that only 47 percent of young people described their relationship with their spouse, partner or close friend as stronger than before. In 2019, this proportion was 65 percent. The share of young people who said they felt happy the previous day also fell to 64 percent.
According to experts, social distancing during the coronavirus pandemic, loneliness, expensive housing, financial insecurity and uncertainty over employment may have affected the lives of young people. Comparing oneself with the achievements of others on social media may also increase stress for some young people. However, while the survey shows a link between these factors, it does not prove any single cause as being responsible for declining life satisfaction.
The picture was different among older people. The survey found a better level of life satisfaction among American citizens aged 65 and above. In 2026, 53 percent of people in this age group were considered to be in a better position in life, compared with 38 percent in 2008.
Gallup’s study is based on adults in the United States. Its findings cannot be directly applied to India or to all young people across the world. Even so, the report underlines the need to pay greater attention to young people’s mental health, social relationships and economic security.
Hashtags: #Health #Bhopal #GenZ #Gallup #MentalHealth #Depression #USSurvey #LifeSatisfaction #YoungAdults #2026
