AXA Mind Health Report 2026

The 2026 AXA Mind Health Report, conducted in partnership with Ipsos, reveals a mental health paradox: while public conversation around mental health has never been more open, actual wellbeing is at its lowest point in over five years. 

The 18-country survey finds a "silent epidemic" characterised by deepening loneliness, workplace stress, and a controversial shift toward AI-driven support.

The report finds a six-point increase in the percentage of people who are struggling or languishing since 2021. Overall, ten out of the 16 countries surveyed in every wave of the Mind Health Report recorded their lowest results in mind health since the Index began in 2021.

Young adults remain hardest hit by mental health challenges. 59% of 18–34-year-olds are languishing or struggling – 13 points higher than the global average. However, this age group are also encouragingly more open to talking about their mind health challenges and seeking help.#

The primary obstacles to better mind health – including cost, time, stigma and access to practitioners – vary across age groups and geographies.

AI is emerging as a double-edged sword, with 63% saying they have already used AI in relation to their mind health. On the one hand, AI advice brings real benefits and platforms raise mental health literacy.

On the other, high numbers of people are trusting AI-generated content over professional advice, and digital habits can further contribute to feelings of loneliness and isolation.

Access the report on the AXA website