New Study Finds Rising Anxiety Rates Among Young Adults

Definium Therapeutics research published in leading mental health journal

Mar. 31, 2026 at 12:30pm

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An ethereal, ghostly X-ray image of a human brain, glowing against a dark background, conceptually representing the internal mental health struggles of young adults.A new study sheds light on the growing mental health crisis facing young adults, with anxiety rates rising sharply in recent years.NYC Today

A new study published in the Journal of Mood and Anxiety Disorders has revealed a concerning trend of increasing anxiety rates among young adults aged 18-25. The research, conducted by biopharmaceutical company Definium Therapeutics, analyzed data from over 10,000 participants and found a marked rise in self-reported anxiety symptoms over the past five years.

Why it matters

The findings underscore the growing mental health crisis facing younger generations, who have experienced significant disruptions to education, employment, and social life in recent years. Experts say the study highlights the urgent need for improved access to mental healthcare and evidence-based treatments to support the wellbeing of young adults.

The details

The Definium Therapeutics study used a combination of clinical assessments and self-reported data to track anxiety levels among the 18-25 age group. Researchers found that the percentage of young adults meeting the criteria for an anxiety disorder increased by 27% between 2021 and 2025. The study also identified several contributing factors, including increased social isolation, financial insecurity, and academic/career pressures exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.

  • The study was published on March 31, 2026 in the Journal of Mood and Anxiety Disorders.
  • The research analyzed data collected between 2021 and 2025.

The players

Definium Therapeutics

A biopharmaceutical company that conducted the research on rising anxiety rates among young adults.

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What they’re saying

“These findings underscore the urgent need for greater mental health support and resources for young people, who have faced immense challenges in recent years.”

— Dr. Emma Watkins, Lead Researcher, Definium Therapeutics

What’s next

Definium Therapeutics plans to use the study's insights to inform the development of new anxiety treatment approaches tailored for young adult populations.

The takeaway

The Definium Therapeutics study paints a concerning picture of the mental health crisis facing young adults, highlighting the need for policymakers, healthcare providers, and communities to prioritize accessible and effective mental health resources to support this vulnerable population.