Anxiety and Depression in Young Adults: A Social Work and Community Perspective
Young adulthood (roughly ages 18–25) is a time of growth, transition, and self-discovery. It can also be emotionally draining. Many young adults face pressure related to education, employment, finances, relationships, and identity growth. Research consistently shows that anxiety and depression are common in this age group and can significantly impact daily functioning, relationships, and overall well-being.
From a social work perspective, mental health is shaped not only by individual experiences but also by social, economic, and systemic factors. Recognizing anxiety and depression early allows communities to respond with empathy, support, and advocacy.
How Common Are Anxiety and Depression in Young Adults?
Recent data highlight the scope of mental health challenges among young adults:
● Approximately 50% of adults ages 18–24 reported symptoms of anxiety or depression in 2023, compared to about one-third of adults overall (Kaiser Family Foundation, 2023).
● A national report found that 36% of young adults reported anxiety and 29% reported depression, nearly twice the rate seen in adolescents (Harvard Graduate School of Education, 2023).
● According to the National Institute of Mental Health, 18.6% of young adults ages 18–25 experienced a major depressive episode in the past year, the highest rate of any adult age group (NIMH, 2024).
These statistics demonstrate that anxiety and depression are not isolated issues; they are widespread public health concerns that require community-level awareness and response.
What Anxiety and Depression Can Look Like
Anxiety and depression do not always present as sadness or panic. Symptoms may include:
Anxiety
● Persistent worry or racing thoughts
● Difficulty concentrating or relaxing
● Restlessness or feeling constantly “on edge”
● Physical symptoms such as headaches or stomach discomfort
Depression
● Ongoing fatigue or low motivation
● Loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities
● Changes in sleep or appetite
● Emotional numbness, irritability, or feelings of hopelessness
Many young adults continue attending school or work while experiencing significant internal distress, making symptoms easy to overlook.
A Social Work Lens: Values in Practice
Social work values provide a strong framework for responding to young adult mental health concerns:
● Dignity and Worth of the Person: Every individual’s experience matters. Distress does not need to meet a diagnostic threshold to deserve care and validation.
● Importance of Human Relationships: Supportive relationships are a key preventive factor. Genuine check-ins and compassionate listening can reduce isolation and stigma.
● Social Justice: Access to mental health care is not equal. Social workers advocate for affordable, culturally responsive, and accessible services for all young adults, particularly those from marginalized communities.
Noticing Changes Over Time
Rather than focusing on a single stressful day, it is important to look for patterns lasting several weeks or longer, such as:
● Withdrawal from social activities
● Persistent exhaustion or emotional flatness
● Increased irritability or negative self-talk
● Difficulty managing daily responsibilities
These changes may signal the need for additional support.
Community Support and Resources
Supporting young adults does not require professional expertise–it starts with empathy, presence, and connection. Communities can help by:
● Normalizing conversations about mental health
● Encouraging help-seeking without judgment
● Connecting individuals to counseling, peer support, and crisis resources
If someone is experiencing emotional distress or a mental health crisis, immediate help is available:
● 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (Call, Text, or Chat — 24/7): https://988lifeline.org/
● Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA): https://www.samhsa.gov/
● Mental Health America – Young Adult Resources: https://mhanational.org/youth-mental-health/young-adults/
Moving Forward Together
Anxiety and depression are not personal failures; they are common mental health conditions influenced by life transitions and social stressors. By recognizing the signs, grounding our responses in social work values, and strengthening community connections, we can support young adults in feeling seen, valued, and empowered toseek help.
References
“About Mental Health.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 5 June 2025, www.cdc.gov/mental-health/about/?CDC_AAref_Val=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fmentalhealth%2Flearn%2Findex.htm
“Anxiety.” American Psychological Association, American Psychological Association, www.apa.org/topics/anxiety
Cashin, Ali. “On Edge: Understanding and Preventing Young Adults’ Mental Health Challenges.” Making Caring Common, Making Caring Common, 23 July 2024, mcc.gse.harvard.edu/reports/on-edge
Lee, Chris. “Latest Federal Data Show That Young People Are More Likely than Older Adults to Be Experiencing Symptoms of Anxiety or Depression.” KFF, 20 Mar. 2023, www.kff.org/mental-health/latest-federal-data-show-that-young-people-are-more-likely-than-older-adults-to-be-experiencing-symptoms-of-anxiety-or-depression/
“Major Depression.” National Institute of Mental Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, July 2023, www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/major-depression
Written by Aracely Guzman, MSW Student Intern – Carve Your Own Path