# Youth mental health challenges in India, US, Maldives, and|

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/youth-mental-health-challenges-in-india-us-and-maldives
> Updated: 2026-10-26T05:10:00.000Z. Sources: 6. Developments: 3.

Mental health challenges, specifically anxiety and depression, are increasingly reported among student and Gen Z populations in India, the United States, the Maldives, and Spain.

In India, research indicates that nearly 70% of students experience moderate to high anxiety, with 60% showing signs of depression. A NIMHANS study involving individuals aged 18 to 21 found that one in four participants experiences significant anxiety symptoms. These trends are attributed to intense academic competition, professional pressures, high family expectations, and the influence of social media. Researchers noted that for many, self-worth has become tied to academic and career achievements. Barriers to care include high therapy costs and a lack of professional services in smaller towns.

In the United States, data shows that 37% of college students reported depression symptoms and 32% experienced anxiety. Research in the American Journal of Public Health indicates that nearly one in five adults aged 18 to 25 reported experiencing daily anxiety in 2024, up from 15% in 2020. Disparities exist, with approximately 45% of young adults identifying as lesbian, gay, or bisexual reporting anxiety diagnoses, compared to 19% of heterosexual peers. To combat these issues, states like New Jersey and Georgia have partnered with UWill to provide free online counseling; New Jersey’s initiative has facilitated over 110,000 sessions for nearly 24,000 students.

In the Maldives, studies of students in grades 10 to 12 identified severe anxiety as a prevalent issue, driven by bullying, harassment, social isolation, and academic pressure. In Spain, a study found that 49.2% of young people aged 15 to 29 experience moderate or severe anxiety, with a strong correlation between severe anxiety and loneliness.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-26: Mental health studies report rising anxiety among young adults

New studies reveal rising mental health struggles among youth, with 20% of US young adults reporting daily anxiety and nearly half of Spanish youth experiencing moderate to severe anxiety.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/mental-health-studies-report-rising-anxiety-among-young-adults

### 2026-10-11: Mental health issues rising among students in Maldives and India

Studies in the Maldives and India reveal high rates of anxiety and stress among students and young adults, driven by academic pressure, family expectations, and social stigma.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/mental-health-issues-rising-among-students-in-maldives-and-india

### 2026-10-07: Mental health challenges rise among Gen Z and students in India and the US

Rising mental health issues among Gen Z and college students in India and the US are driving calls for better access to care and statewide support programs.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/mental-health-challenges-rise-among-gen-z-and-students-in-india-and-the-us

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Cite as: Youth mental health challenges in India, US, Maldives, and|. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/youth-mental-health-challenges-in-india-us-and-maldives