MediBuddy has released a study revealing a sharp rise in emotional stress among the millennial workforce. MediBuddy’s psychological consultation data from October to December 2024 reveals the mental health trends among the millennial workforce, with anxiety and stress emerging as dominant concerns affecting nearly half of all cases.
The study, which analysed data from 2,400 consultations taken by expert psychologists for clients across various age groups and genders, brings to light the need for targeted mental health interventions in workplace environments, particularly for young professionals aged 20–40 who exhibit the highest prevalence of anxiety and stress-related conditions.
The data shows that anxiety-related issues remain the most prevalent condition overall, comprising 32.28 per cent of all consultations, followed closely by stressor-related concerns at 17.15 per cent, together accounting for nearly 50 per cent of all mental health consultations.
The study reviewed specific reasons causing these mental health issues. Among Gen Z, young men frequently face burnout due to professional and societal pressures, while young women often struggle with financial instability and the demand for social validation, influenced by societal norms and digital exposure. Relationship-related stress and body image concerns were noted as significant mental health challenges for both genders in this age group.
For millennials, several factors contribute to rising mental health concerns. Work-life imbalance is a key issue, as individuals struggle to balance career growth, financial security, and personal milestones, leading to chronic stress. Digital burnout, fueled by constant connectivity, erodes the boundaries between work and personal life, making it difficult to disconnect and recharge. Economic uncertainty further exacerbates anxiety, fostering feelings of career instability and financial pressure. Women, in particular, face the added challenge of balancing career advancement with family responsibilities, which often affects their physical and mental well-being.
The study also highlights the role of social media in exacerbating these issues, as social comparison fosters unrealistic performance expectations and amplifies emotional distress. Gender-based analysis reveals notable differences: males reported higher anxiety-related complaints (16.95 per cent compared to 15.20 per cent in females), while females exhibited higher stress levels (9.11 per cent versus 7.97 per cent in males). Depression affected both genders equally, with rates of 2.48 per cent in males and 2.44 per cent in females. This highlights the difference in presentation of mental health issues, response to triggers and coping mechanisms among the genders.
One of the pressing concerns is the age-based prevalence of mental health issues, with the 20-30-year age group reporting the highest rates of anxiety (16.50 per cent) and stress (8.46 per cent), followed by the 30-40-year group with 11.02 per cent anxiety and 6.14 per cent stress prevalence.
The study highlights the need for comprehensive mental health support in professional environments. Organisations must prioritise mental wellness through targeted interventions, including stress management programmes, digital detox initiatives, and mental health counselling, to empower employees to navigate these pressures and foster a healthier, more balanced work environment.