The global burden of mental disorders and substance use disorders among adolescents and young adults reaches alarming levels

Mental disorders and substance use disorders (SUD) represent a major public health challenge among adolescents and young adults worldwide. A recent study quantified the prevalence, disability-adjusted life years (DALY), and years lived with disability (YLD) of these disorders between 1990 and 2021, revealing concerning trends, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic period.

In 2021, the global prevalence of mental disorders stood at 15.2% among adolescents and 16.1% among young adults, with anxiety disorders being the most common condition in both age groups. These disorders are the leading cause of YLD and DALY, highlighting their devastating impact on quality of life and productivity. High-income regions, such as Australasia, North America, and Western Europe, exhibit the highest rates of mental disorders, while marked gender differences have been observed: boys are more affected by attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism spectrum disorders, whereas girls suffer more from anorexia nervosa, depression, and anxiety.

SUD rank 15th in terms of YLD and 22nd in terms of DALY among adolescents, but rise to 8th and 11th place, respectively, among young adults. During the pandemic, a significant increase in the prevalence of mental disorders was recorded, accompanied by a decline in SUD. DALY attributable to mental disorders, particularly depression and anxiety, increased sharply, with a heavier burden on girls than boys.

Mental disorders remain the leading cause of disability among adolescents and young adults worldwide, with a marked increase between 2019 and 2021. Although SUD have declined, the rise in depression and anxiety underscores the urgency of implementing age-appropriate, gender-sensitive, and regionally tailored mental health strategies.

This study highlights the need for targeted interventions to address the growing mental health needs, especially during health crises. Geographic and gender disparities demand strengthened public policies, integrating preventive approaches, accessible care, and awareness programs. Emphasis must be placed on the most vulnerable populations, such as young women and residents of disadvantaged regions, where mental health resources are often limited.

The findings call for collective action to improve access to care, reduce stigma, and promote the psychological well-being of younger generations, in order to limit the lasting impact of these disorders on society.

Bibliographie

Source de l’étude

DOI : https://doi.org/10.1038/s41380-026-03503-9

Titre : The global burden of mental and substance use disorders among adolescents and young adults

Revue : Molecular Psychiatry

Éditeur : Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Auteurs : Xiangyu Zhao; Ligang Liu; Luofei Zhang; Pujing Zhao; Wenshuo Jiang; Milap C. Nahata