In an era defined by economic uncertainty, digital fatigue and growing social isolation, young Filipinos are facing surging mental health problems according to AXA 2025 Mind Health report.
A press release issued by AXA Philippines said Filipinos, aged 18 to 34, are experiencing significantly higher levels of stress, anxiety and depression than their global peers. Yet, they are also among the most proactive in seeking support through digital and AI-powered mental wellness tools.
The 2025 study reveals how Filipinos—especially the younger generation—are coping, adapting, and innovating in response to mental health challenges.
The report found that GenZ and Millennials lead the shift to digital mental health. The AXA Mind Health Index, an important component of the report, categorises individuals into four distinct mental well-being states:
? Flourishing, the pinnacle of positive mind health.
? Getting by, where individuals show some areas of well-being but not enough to flourish.
? Languishing, the absence of positive well-being; and
? Struggling, the most vulnerable state, marked by challenges in most areas of life.
A significant portion of Filipino youth identify as languishing or struggling—highlighting the urgent need for accessible, relevant, and proactive mental health solutions.
According to the report, Filipinos aged 18 to 34 are more likely than older generations to suffer from severe mental health symptoms and are diagnosed with conditions at higher rates than their global peers.
Despite these challenges, this age group shows strong resilience and initiative—39% turn to AI-powered mental health tools, well above the global average of 28%. In fact, half of all Filipinos now rely on digital platforms like websites, blogs, forums, and social media for mental health support.
The report also reveals that nearly seven in ten Filipinos experience at least mild forms of anxiety, stress, or depression—among the highest rates globally. The main drivers include financial instability and job insecurity (76% vs 53% globally), uncertainty about the future (70% vs 53%), loneliness and social isolation (58% vs 42%), climate change anxiety (57% vs 38%), and exposure to negative news (55% vs 45%).
Workplaces play a significant role in both stress and support. The data points to an opportunity for organisations to be part of the solution—by fostering psychologically safe environments, supporting mental health literacy, and encouraging open conversations.
Local employers must encourage proactive conversations and collaborations among young Filipinos to support mental health and promote holistic well-being across communities.
As more young Filipinos turn to self-guided tools and digital channels for help, the availability of accessible resources for early mental health awareness and care becomes increasingly important.
AXA Philippines CEO Ayman Kandil said, “Mental health is not just a personal issue—it’s a public one and tackling it requires shared understanding, accessible tools, and sustained support. And while we still have a long way to address the gaps, know you can do something now and thrive with the right support.”
The annual AXA Mind Health Report, now in its fifth year, explores global and local attitudes toward mental health and tracks emerging trends and behaviours that influence mental wellness across life stages and cultures.