Young adults increasingly turn to peers for mental health support

A 2026 UnitedHealthcare survey of over 2,000 U.S. college students and young adults reveals that 47% of respondents would consult a friend first regarding mental health concerns, significantly higher than the 23% who would seek a trusted adult.

While peer support shows promise in strengthening connections and helping young people navigate challenges, data indicates that many peers feel unprepared to handle these conversations in school or work environments. This trend comes amid global challenges; the World Health Organization reports that approximately one in seven people worldwide lives with a mental health condition. Additionally, a survey of over 5,600 individuals aged 14 to 25 found that only half knew how to access mental health resources, and 40% reported ongoing stigma regarding mental health discussions.

Peer support is viewed as a complement to, rather than a replacement for, professional medical care. It can assist individuals in recognizing when professional help is necessary. Consequently, investment in structured peer-support initiatives is increasing, including a $10 million commitment from Kaiser Permanente in July 2026 to expand youth services.