Aviva’s latest Story of Health research reveals that young adults aged 18–24 and those in midlife aged 45–54 are facing significantly lower mental well-being than the UK average. While younger people are actively trying to protect their mental health through positive habits and social interaction, both groups still require more tailored support.
Mental health disparities across age groups
Only 47% of 18–24-year-olds and 51% of 45–54-year-olds rate their mental health as good, compared with 62% across all ages. In contrast, 22% of young adults and 19% of those in midlife describe their mental health as poor, higher than the 12% average among other age groups. Emotional strain is particularly visible among young adults: 48% often feel overwhelmed or stressed, 43% report anxiety, and 33% experience persistent low mood. Among those aged 45–54, 28% often feel anxious and 26% report low mood, compared to 24% and 20% across all ages.
Happiness levels and sources of pressure
Happiness levels also reflect this strain. Only half of young adults and 46% of midlife Britons rate their happiness as good, compared to 59% overall. For younger people, early career challenges, financial independence, and identity formation contribute to stress, while those in midlife often balance work, children, and ageing parents. Financial pressures remain the main concern for both groups, followed by worries about work and the future.
Support access remains limited
Access to mental health support lags behind need. Only 42% of young adults and 44% of those aged 45–54 feel they have adequate support, compared to 51% across all ages. When seeking help, 40% of all respondents would turn to GPs, 36% to friends and family, 20% to therapists, and 14% to mental health charities. Younger adults are more likely to confide in friends and family, while those in midlife rely more on their GPs. Nearly two in five young adults and over a third of those aged 45–54 say they lack enough support, exceeding the national average of 31%.
Social connection as a lifeline
Social connection plays a critical role in mental well-being. Yet 36% of young adults and 27% of those in midlife often feel lonely, compared with 25% overall. Barriers differ by age: young adults cite mental health struggles, low confidence, and uncertainty about where to begin, while midlife adults mention lack of time, anxiety, and financial stress. Still, 96% of all respondents agree that social interaction benefits health. Young adults spend an average of 3.3 hours a week socialising face-to-face, while those aged 45–54 average 2.6 hours.
Community engagement and emotional openness
About 46% of young adults feel a sense of belonging in their community, with 22% wanting to join local activities. Among midlife Britons, only 41% feel connected to their community, compared to 53% overall. Friends, family, partners, and even pets are key emotional supports for young people, whereas 16% of midlife adults and 23% of over-55s confide in no one. This suggests a generational shift toward greater openness among younger groups.
Dr Subashini M, medical director at Aviva UK Health, said: “Mental health challenges don’t discriminate by age. They can affect us at any stage of life, though the reasons and experiences often differ. While younger adults may be navigating identity, independence and uncertainty, older generations can face pressures from work, health, and caring responsibilities. What’s clear is that no one is immune. It’s vital that people are listened to, supported, and have accessible, personalised pathways to help them thrive at every stage of their lives. We all – employers, educators, healthcare providers, and policymakers – have a role to play in ensuring they’re not facing these challenges alone.”
