Negativity is taking over the world, as the Gallup survey of 144 countries showed. The U.S. is no exception — depression rates went up in the past ten years, especially among young adults.
Depressed World: Global Trends
Around 40% of people globally reported experiencing anxiety and stress, while 26% said they felt sadness.
Gallup compared these results with The Global Peace Index: higher levels of negative emotions were found in less peaceful countries. And where negative emotions are high, people tend to live shorter.
On the Global Peace Index, the U.S. ranks 132 out of 163 countries.
Depression In The U.S.
In 2015, about 10% of adult Americans reported having depression. In 2025, this number is about 18%. That’s an increase of over 8 percentage points that are representing millions of Americans.
The sharpest increase is among people under 30 and low-income people.
Financial stressors for both of these groups include healthcare costs, food insecurity, student debt, and housing instability.
Gallup research also shows a strong link between loneliness and depression. About 30% of young adults now experience loneliness daily, and around the same percent of them have depression.
Any Good News?
Globally, the level of positive emotions like laughter, enjoyment, and feeling well-rested has remained stable. 70% of people reported that.
GDP per capita is the main driver of positive emotions, likely reflecting the standard of living and higher economic development.
What Can I Do With This Data?
Consider moving to Canada; it came 11th on the Global Peace Index. Just kidding! Take care of your mental health. Explore ways to beat loneliness, restore your sleep and mental sharpness.