WOONSOCKET, Rhode Island — A new CVS Health survey reveals a deepening mental health crisis in the United States, with a majority of adults reporting heightened concerns for themselves and their loved ones, amplified by the anxieties of social media.
Two-thirds of adults have experienced mental health concerns, a significant increase from previous years, according to the survey. The widespread unease mirrors growing concerns about the economy and places mental health as a top national issue.
“Mental health became a top concern in 2020 and it has only risen since,” said Dr. Taft Parsons III, Vice President and Chief Psychiatric Officer at CVS Health. “Uncertainty around the future, current events, and social media continue to drive anxiety among adults.”
Social media, while increasing awareness and access to mental health resources, has emerged as a double-edged sword. While over a third of adults acknowledge learning about mental health issues through social media, nearly 40% believe the platforms have negatively impacted society.
The survey found that a third of adults are now actively trying to reduce their social media use, with half of parents expressing concerns about the impact on their children’s development and worldview.
“Our increasing use of technology has helped increase access to mental health care… and created a way for people to talk openly about the topic, reducing stigma,” Parsons III added. “But as we navigate the impacts social media has on mental health, it has become increasingly important that we highlight its limitations and set guardrails for ourselves and our children.”
The findings underscore the need for continued efforts to expand access to mental health care and address the specific challenges posed by the digital age. CVS Health, for instance, has reported over 43 million mental health virtual visits since 2020.
Footnote: This poll was conducted by Morning Consult between March 19-21, 2024, among a national sample of 2,202 adults. The margin of error for the full sample is plus or minus two percentage points.