A 2025 REPORT BY HIDDEN STRENGTH

UNDERSTANDING THE MENTAL HEALTH CRISIS AMONG YOUNG PEOPLE

In recent years, the mental health of young people has reached a critical tipping point. Stress, depression, anxiety, self-harm, and deep feelings of loneliness are just a few amongst the increasingly common burdens plaguing teenagers and young adults. These challenges are not just emotional — they impact academic performance, relationships, physical health, and long-term potential. For many, each day feels like a battle they must face alone.

To understand just how widespread these experiences are — and where the most urgent needs lie — we conducted a comprehensive survey among young people across the US and United Kingdom. This research sought to uncover the reality behind the statistics: What are young people really feeling? How often do they struggle with their mental health? What barriers keep them from seeking help? What role does social media play in shaping their emotional wellbeing?

This research aimed to uncover the lived realities behind the rising mental health concerns, capturing the depth of emotional challenges, the barriers to accessing care, and the growing influence of digital life on mental wellbeing. By hearing directly from young people ages 14-24, this survey shines a light on the personal and collective challenges faced by a generation, and highlights where better support systems, interventions, and education are needed.

Created specifically for individuals aged 13–24, Hidden Strength is a unique mental health platform offering immediate, accessible support in a safe, judgment-free, and fully anonymous space. Through its secure, interactive app, users can access licensed therapists for scheduled sessions and explore a wide range of content designed to uplift, educate, and empower them on their mental health journey. Hidden Strength is more than a resource — it’s a partner in helping young people feel heard, supported, and never alone.

GENERAL MENTAL HEALTH STRUGGLES

A significant majority of respondents — 75.6% — report struggling with their emotional and mental health, either occasionally or daily. Only 24.4% of respondents describe their lives as happy and balanced. This data highlights a widespread mental health concern, suggesting that three out of four individuals are dealing with emotional or psychological challenges in some capacity. Additionally, a gender breakdown of mental health struggles reveals that 81.4% of girls reported currently struggling with their mental and emotional well-being, compared to 69.8% of boys. This suggests that girls are more likely to report mental health difficulties, which may reflect either a greater prevalence or a higher likelihood of openness about such struggles.

RATES OF MENTAL AND EMOTIONAL HEALTH STRUGGLES

This graph tracks the percentage of respondents who reported currently struggling with their emotional and mental health.

GIRLS VS. BOYS

This graph compares the percentage of male respondents versus female respondents who reported currently struggling with their emotional and mental health.

FREQUENT MENTAL HEALTH CHALLENGES FOR YOUNG PEOPLE

Many young people are quietly struggling with feelings of isolation. Even when surrounded by others, there’s a deep sense that no one really sees what they’re going through. It’s not just about being alone — it’s about feeling emotionally disconnected. 65.6% of respondents report feeling isolated or alone with their emotions at least occasionally. When broken down by gender, a higher percentage of girls report feeling isolated and alone than boys. These findings emphasise the need for fostering connection and community — particularly for girls, who may be less likely to seek or acknowledge support.

EMOTIONAL ISOLATION AND PERCEIVED SOCIAL DISREGARD

This graph tracks the percentage of respondents who report feeling isolated and alone with their feelings, and that others don’t care about their feelings or wellbeing.

GIRLS VS. BOYS

This graph tracks the percentage of male versus female respondents who report feeling isolated and alone with their feelings, and that others don’t care about their feelings or wellbeing.

THE MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT GAP

A concerning 68.7% of respondents reported feeling that they needed someone to talk to about their emotions or life but didn’t have anyone to turn to, indicating a major gap in emotional support. The gender breakdown reveals that this issue affects girls more acutely — 72.8% of them said they lacked someone to talk to when they needed support, compared to 64.6% of boys. These findings underline the emotional isolation many young people face, especially girls, and point to the urgent need for stronger social support systems and more open conversations around seeking help.

This graph tracks the percentage of respondents who reported needing to talk to someone about their emotions or life, but didn’t have someone to talk to for support.

GIRLS VS. BOYS

This graph tracks the percentage of male versus female respondents who reported needing to talk to someone about their emotions or life, but didn’t have someone to talk to for support.

FREQUENCY OF STRESS

Whether it’s school, work, relationships, or simply trying to meet expectations, many feel like they’re always under pressure. Stress appears to be a near universal experience with 75.8% of respondents report that they feel stressed either daily or a few times a week. Gender comparisons show that girls are more likely than women to report frequent stress, with 82.2% of girls feeling stressed regularly compared to 69.4% of boys. These insights suggest that while stress affects most people regardless of gender, girls may be experiencing — or at least internalizing — chronic stress at a notably higher rate. And yet, it’s often brushed off as just part of growing up.

This graph tracks the frequency of which respondents report feeling stressed out.

GIRLS VS. BOYS

This graph tracks the frequency of which male versus female respondents report feeling stressed out.

BARRIERS TO GETTING MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT

The need to talk — and the absence of someone to turn to — is a quiet crisis for many young people. There’s a gap between emotional need and emotional access. The top barriers preventing young people from seeking mental health support reveal a mix of internal and external challenges. The most commonly cited reason is being too busy and struggling to find time. Another major barrier was not knowing where to go. When broken down by gender, the trends remain largely consistent — though boys were slightly more likely than girls to cite embarrassment and fear of being judged as top barriers. Interestingly, boys were slightly more likely to express uncertainty about where to go and skepticism about getting help. These findings point to the persistent stigma and uncertainty that still surround mental health support — particularly among boys — and underscore the need for clearer pathways, normalized conversations, and increased awareness of available resources.

This graph tracks the percentage of respondents who reported their top 3 barriers to getting mental health support.

GIRLS VS. BOYS

This graph tracks the percentage of male versus female respondents who report feeling isolated and alone with their feelings, and that others don’t care about their feelings or wellbeing.

THE MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT GAP

This graph tracks the percentage of respondents who reported needing to talk to someone about their emotions or life, but didn’t have someone to talk to for support.

GIRLS VS. BOYS

This graph tracks the frequency of which male versus female respondents report feeling sad or anxious.

EASE OF ACCESS TO AFFORDABLE MENTAL HEALTH CARE

Most young people feel that mental health care is somewhat accessible, but that access often comes with caveats. A majority of respondents (61.7%) report that it is somewhat difficult or very difficult to access mental healthcare. However, this still leaves nearly 26% of young people either unsure or feeling they do not have access at all. Gender differences note girls are slightly more likely to report difficulty. These findings indicate that a sizable portion of young people encounter confusion, doubt, or real barriers when accessing mental healthcare — underscoring the need to not only improve access but also clearly communicate how and where to get help.

This graph tracks the percentage of respondents who reported the ease of access to affordable mental health care in their area, either in person, online or via app.

GIRLS VS. BOYS

This graph tracks the percentage of male versus female respondents who reported the ease of access to affordable mental health care in their area, either in person, online or via app.

POTENTIAL USAGE OF FREE THERAPY APPS

There’s strong support among young people — an overwhelming 89.3% of respondents — to use mental health tools that meet them where they are. For a generation that often faces barriers to traditional therapy, digital solutions aren’t just convenient — they’re empowering. The interest is abundant with only 10.7% saying they would not use such an app. This signals a need for mental health support that is both discreet and trustworthy. These findings highlight a major opportunity to reach young people through digital platforms that prioritize privacy and autonomy, especially for those who may face stigma or logistical barriers in traditional care settings.

This graph tracks the percentage of respondents who said that they would use a free therapy app that is anonymous, confidential, and doesn’t require parental consent.

GIRLS VS. BOYS

This graph tracks the percentage of male versus female respondents who said that they would use a free therapy app that is anonymous, confidential, and doesn’t require parental consent

MOTIVATING FACTORS IN SEEKING MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT

Support isn’t just about availability — it’s about encouragement, trust, and feeling seen. Young people say they’re more likely to seek help if it’s easy to access, if someone they trust recommends it, or if they know others around them are doing the same. When asked what would most encourage them to seek mental health support, the top response from respondents was having easier access to support online or via an app (26.3%). Gender comparisons show some differences in what motivates individuals: girls are more likely to be influenced by social validation. On the other hand, boys were more motivated by accessibility and cost. These insights suggest that both social proof and logistical access play major roles in encouraging mental health engagement — highlighting a need for both community normalization and system-level improvements.

This graph tracks the percentage of respondents who reported the factor that would most encourage them to seek mental health support.

GIRLS VS. BOYS

This graph tracks the percentage of male versus female respondents who reported the factor that would most encourage them to seek mental health support.

1. If I could physically visit a mental health professional in a timely manner
2. If I could access a mental health professional online or via an app
3. If I could access mental health support right when I need it or am in crisis
4. If I could access a mental health professional for free
5. If I knew of mental health support tools and resources that are available

THE INFLUENCE OF SOCIAL MEDIA ON MENTAL HEALTH

Social media holds a powerful place in how young people experience and interpret their mental health. For some, it’s a lifeline — a place where they find validation, advice, and a sense of not being alone. For a greater percentage though, it can damage their mental health. 74.2% of respondents believe social media plays at least some role in their mental health. These findings underscore the significant — but nuanced — relationship young people perceive between their mental wellbeing and the role of social platforms, with boys more likely to recognize a strong impact and girls showing a more moderate view.

This graph tracks how significant a role respondents believe social media plays in their mental health, ranging from no impact to a major influence.

GIRLS VS. BOYS

This graph tracks how significant a role male versus female respondents believe social media plays in their mental health, ranging from no impact to a major influence.

TOP SOCIAL MEDIA APPS FOR MENTAL HEALTH ANSWERS AND SUPPORT

The platforms we scroll through daily aren’t just entertainment — they’re emotional environments. When looking for mental health information and support, 34.3% of respondents said they turn to TikTok. Gender differences paint an interesting picture: girls are much more likely to turn to TikTok while boys favor YouTube slightly more. These patterns suggest that while visual and video-based platforms dominate how young people seek mental health content, platform preference can differ notably by gender — information that could help tailor outreach and resources more effectively.

This graph tracks the top social media platforms respondents turn to for mental health answers and support.

GIRLS VS. BOYS

This graph tracks the top social media platforms male versus female respondents turn to for mental health answers and support.

SELF-HARM EXPOSURE AND CONSIDERATION

A considerable number of young people are grappling with emotional pain that runs deep — so deep, in fact, that 6 in 10 say they have considered self-harm at some point. For some, these thoughts are occasional and passing; for others, they’re recurring and intense. The weight of unspoken distress, feelings of hopelessness, and a lack of safe outlets can all contribute to this internal crisis. Interestingly, these thoughts are not exclusive to one gender — while girls report them at higher rates, boys are not far behind, even though they may be less likely to talk about it. This quiet pain underscores the urgency of early intervention, open dialogue, and the normalization of asking for help before these thoughts begin to take root.

THOUGHTS OF SELF-HARM

This graph tracks the percentage of respondents who have considered self-harm.

GIRLS VS. BOYS

This graph tracks the percentage of male versus female respondents who have considered self-harm.

ONLINE EXPOSURE TO TEEN SELF-HARM

For young users still developing their sense of self and emotional resilience, this kind of exposure can quietly reinforce unhealthy behaviors or deepen a sense of helplessness. Nearly 38% of young people say they’ve come across content online — videos or posts — where teens are either engaging in or encouraging self-harm. That’s almost 4 in 10 users exposed to emotionally harmful material that, for some, can feel both triggering and unsettling. The gender breakdown shows that this experience is nearly identical across the board. It reflects a darker side of the internet where pain is both broadcast and echoed, often without context, support, or safeguards. It’s a stark reminder of why digital spaces must be monitored not only for safety, but for empathy.

This graph tracks the percentage of respondents who reported having social media posts or online videos of teenagers intentionally harming themselves or encouraging others to harm themselves.

GIRLS VS. BOYS

This graph tracks the percentage of male versus female respondents who reported having social media posts or online videos of teenagers intentionally harming themselves or encouraging others to harm themselves.

INFLUENCE OF SELF-HARM CONTENT

For some young people, seeing content about self-harm online doesn’t just raise concern — it creates pressure. Nearly 4 in 10 respondents said they’ve felt influenced or possibly pressured into self-harming behavior after viewing social media posts or videos showing others doing the same. The emotional impact of this content can be quiet but powerful, especially for those already struggling. Gender differences don’t highlight much of a divide when it comes to feeling this influence — suggesting that young people may be absorbing these messages in deeply personal and often silent ways. These insights highlight the need for safer digital environments where vulnerability isn’t exploited and emotional pain isn’t left unchecked.

This graph tracks the percentage of respondents who reported feeling pressured or influenced in engaging in self-harming behavior after viewing social media posts or videos partaking in, or encouraging, similar behavior

GIRLS VS. BOYS

This graph tracks the percentage of male versus female respondents who reported feeling pressured or influenced in engaging in self-harmful behavior after viewing social media posts or videos partaking in, or encouraging, similar behavior.

Conlusion

This report paints a vivid — and urgent — picture of the emotional reality facing young people today. Stress, sadness, isolation, and exposure to harmful content are not isolated experiences — they’re deeply woven into the fabric of daily life for a generation growing up online, under pressure, and often without a clear path to support. What’s equally clear is the appetite for change. Young people are open to help, and want it. They want connection. They’re willing to reach out — but only if the system reaching back understands them.

Despite growing awareness, many young people still face significant barriers to getting mental health support — from time constraints and cost, to confusion, stigma, and fear of being misunderstood. For some, this lack of access leads to self-harm — a coping mechanism often rooted in emotional pain that feels too overwhelming to express. Far from being a call for attention, self-harm is often a silent cry for help, carried out in secrecy and isolation by those who feel they have nowhere else to turn.

Social media plays a complicated role in the mental health of young people. While it can foster connection, it often amplifies feelings of inadequacy through constant comparison, cyberbullying, and unrealistic portrayals of life. The nonstop flow of content can leave teens and young adults feeling overwhelmed, unseen, and emotionally drained. At the same time, many face real barriers to accessing mental health care — whether it’s long waitlists, high costs, uncertainty about where to go, or fear of being judged. Even when young people want help, finding the right support can feel confusing, intimidating, or completely out of reach.

“We can’t just tell young people to speak up — we have to build spaces they actually want to speak in,” says Linsey Lunny, Founder and CEO of Hidden Strength. “Mental health support shouldn’t feel clinical or cold. It should feel like coming home to yourself.”

Hidden Strength exists to fill the very gaps this data makes visible. Our platform is built not around diagnoses, but around dialogue. It offers free, confidential access to trained therapists through a chat-based, social-media-style app designed with young users in mind. Whether someone is struggling with anxiety, navigating identity, or feeling overwhelmed by what they’re seeing online, Hidden Strength creates a space to be seen, heard, and helped. With features like anonymous story-sharing, quick therapist check-ins, and a library of relatable mental health content, we’re not just reimagining access — we’re redefining what mental health support feels like.

The numbers tell us what’s happening. It’s up to all of us — parents, educators, policymakers, and tech leaders — to respond with tools that empower, not intimidate. At Hidden Strength, we believe this generation doesn’t need to be saved. They need to be supported. And we’re here to do exactly that.

A 2025 REPORT BY HIDDEN STRENGTH

UNDERSTANDING THE MENTAL HEALTH CRISIS AMONG YOUNG PEOPLE

GENERAL MENTAL HEALTH STRUGGLES

RATES OF MENTAL AND EMOTIONAL HEALTH STRUGGLES

GIRLS VS. BOYS

FREQUENT MENTAL HEALTH CHALLENGES FOR YOUNG PEOPLE

EMOTIONAL ISOLATION AND PERCEIVED SOCIAL DISREGARD

GIRLS VS. BOYS

THE MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT GAP

GIRLS VS. BOYS

FREQUENCY OF STRESS

GIRLS VS. BOYS

BARRIERS TO GETTING MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT

GIRLS VS. BOYS

THE MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT GAP

GIRLS VS. BOYS

EASE OF ACCESS TO AFFORDABLE MENTAL HEALTH CARE

GIRLS VS. BOYS

POTENTIAL USAGE OF FREE THERAPY APPS

GIRLS VS. BOYS

MOTIVATING FACTORS IN SEEKING MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT

GIRLS VS. BOYS

THE INFLUENCE OF SOCIAL MEDIA ON MENTAL HEALTH

GIRLS VS. BOYS

TOP SOCIAL MEDIA APPS FOR MENTAL HEALTH ANSWERS AND SUPPORT

GIRLS VS. BOYS

SELF-HARM EXPOSURE AND CONSIDERATION

THOUGHTS OF SELF-HARM

GIRLS VS. BOYS

ONLINE EXPOSURE TO TEEN SELF-HARM

GIRLS VS. BOYS

INFLUENCE OF SELF-HARM CONTENT

GIRLS VS. BOYS

Conlusion

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