India Ranks 60th in Youth Mental Well-Being: Sapien Labs Report

Category : National Published on: February 28 2026

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India’s young adults have ranked 60th among 84 countries in mental well-being, according to the ‘Global Mind Health in 2025’ report by Sapien Labs. The study surveyed over 78,000 internet-enabled Indians and assessed mental health using the Mind Health Quotient (MHQ), which evaluates 47 cognitive, emotional, social, and physical indicators.
Individuals aged 18–34 recorded an average MHQ score of 33, while those aged 55 and above scored 96, ranking 49th globally. Researchers described this disparity as a structural, multi-year generational shift rather than a temporary post-pandemic impact.
Key contributors to declining youth mental health include weaker family bonds, higher consumption of ultra-processed food, and early smartphone exposure. About 44% of young adults reported regular intake of ultra-processed food, compared to 11% among older adults. Globally, youth in developed nations such as Japan and the United Kingdom ranked lower, while countries like Ghana performed relatively better.