Despite Progress, Emotional Isolation, Stigma Persist Around Mental Health, Poll Finds

Core Insights - Public attitudes toward mental health are improving, but stigma and barriers to care remain significant challenges across the U.S. [1][7] Group 1: Public Perception and Stigma - 88% of U.S. adults believe having a mental health disorder is not something to be ashamed of, yet 84% think the term "mental illness" carries a stigma [2] - More than one-third (35%) of adults would view someone differently if they learned they had a mental health condition, with higher percentages among younger adults [2] - 81% of U.S. adults feel comfortable discussing mental health with friends, indicating a willingness to engage in conversations [3] Group 2: Young Adults' Attitudes - Young adults aged 18-34 are more likely to feel negative about their mental health, with only 41% feeling positive compared to 61% of those aged 55 and older [4] - Over one-third (34%) of young adults cite not having someone to confide in as a barrier to discussing mental health openly [4] - 52% of young adults would feel comfortable discussing mental health with an AI chatbot, compared to 26% of older adults, suggesting a preference for anonymity [5] Group 3: Barriers to Care - Cost (29%) and finding a compatible provider (36%) are cited as top barriers to seeking effective mental health treatment [6] - Only 28% of U.S. adults feel their mental health is better today than a year ago, indicating ongoing challenges [6] - The survey highlights the need for continued efforts to address emotional and financial barriers to mental health support [7]