According to a recent Gallup poll, a record low number of Americans rate their mental health as “good” or “excellent.” For the first time, fewer than 30% felt their mental health was “excellent,” while only 72% rated it as “good” or better. This decline has been noticeable since the COVID-19 pandemic began. Before 2020, over 42% of people consistently rated their mental health positively.
Experts are concerned about these figures but also see a silver lining. David Radley from the Commonwealth Fund suggests that talking more openly about mental health may be a good sign. “People admitting they’re struggling is a positive development,” he said. Dr. Lisa Rosenthal, a psychiatry professor at Northwestern University, echoes this sentiment, suggesting that the decline in ratings may reflect a drop in stigma surrounding mental health issues.
Social media is filled with discussions about conditions like bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. More adults are recognizing that lifelong struggles may be linked to treatable mental health conditions. A white paper from Fair Health reveals a dramatic rise in mental health diagnoses since 2019. Conditions such as anxiety and depression likely surged due to pandemic-related stress, while others like ADHD have long been recognized as chronic.
Radley and Rosenthal both agree that the trauma from COVID-19, along with political and economic uncertainties, heavily impacts mental health. Dr. Rosenthal explains that some unhappiness is a normal response to these confusing times. She notes that discussions around politics and societal issues are common among her patients, especially for immigrants facing additional stressors.
The Gallup poll also highlights a notable drop in self-rated mental health among groups that usually report higher well-being, like college-educated adults and Republicans. The percentage of Republicans feeling “excellent” in their mental health fell from 53% (2014-2019) to 40% (2020-2025). For college graduates, the decline was 17%, bringing their “excellent” rating down to 36%, which is now closer in line with non-college-educated peers.
Historically, people’s mental health ratings often improve when their political party is in power. However, both surveyed periods saw mixed leadership. “We’re all pretty unhappy,” Dr. Rosenthal commented on the widening gap between college graduates and non-graduates.
Disconnection and anger in society are further contributing to low mental health. Dr. Rosenthal expressed that our ability to converse civilly has deteriorated, impacting feelings of community. Interestingly, as polarization increases, mental health outcomes are somewhat aligning across different groups. Radley pointed out, “The challenges seem to affect everyone, regardless.”
This current climate highlights the need for more open conversations about mental health, as understanding and awareness can foster support and healing.
For further insights into mental health trends, you might explore resources from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) here.
