Anxiety, Depression Rates Climb for Certain US Groups

Study finds significant increases among men, Black individuals, and those born outside the US

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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A new cross-sectional study shows the prevalence of anxiety or depression increased significantly in the US from 2019 to 2023, with the greatest rise seen in Black women without disabilities who were born outside the US. The study analyzed data from over 150,000 adults and found increases across various demographic groups, including men, Black individuals, and those born outside the country.

Why it matters

The findings highlight the need for tailored mental health interventions that consider factors like disability status and demographic intersections, as certain populations appear to be disproportionately impacted by rising anxiety and depression rates.

The details

The study, led by researchers at the National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities, analyzed data from the 2019-2023 National Health Interview Survey. It found the prevalence of anxiety or depression increased significantly overall, with the largest increases seen in participants without disabilities who identified as Black or as belonging to another race/ethnicity. Both men with and without disabilities showed significant increases, while the rise was only seen in women without disabilities. Participants born outside the US without disabilities had a higher prevalence compared to those with disabilities or US-born participants without disabilities. Black individuals without disabilities and born outside the US had the greatest increase, with women seeing a 14.9% average annual percentage change and men 8.3%.

  • The study analyzed data from 2019 to 2023.
  • The findings were published online on February 2, 2026.

The players

David Adzrago

PhD, Division of Intramural Research, National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities, Bethesda, Maryland.

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What they’re saying

“These findings suggest the need for tailored mental health interventions that consider disability status and demographic intersections.”

— David Adzrago, Researcher (JAMA Network Open)

What’s next

The researchers note the study was limited by self-reported data and did not include individuals living in long-term care or residential facilities. Further research is needed to better understand the factors driving the disparities in anxiety and depression rates across different demographic groups.

The takeaway

The significant increases in anxiety and depression prevalence, especially among marginalized groups like Black individuals and those born outside the US, underscores the urgent need for more targeted and accessible mental health resources and support services to address these growing disparities.