Swiss youth report good mental health but rising fears over war and careers
A new study reveals that while most young people in Switzerland feel mentally well, concerns about war and future careers are growing. The research, led by Pro Juventute and the Psychiatric University Hospital Zurich, surveyed nearly a thousand adolescents and young adults aged 14 to 25. It highlights how stress, anxiety, and digital habits are shaping their lives.
The study found that 88 percent of participants reported good mental health. Yet, one in ten are currently in psychotherapy, showing that some still struggle. Girls and young women, in particular, experience higher stress levels about their personal futures and global issues. They also talk about their problems more often than boys and young men.
School and vocational training remain the top sources of stress, with one in three feeling unprepared for life after education. Young people with migration backgrounds face even greater pressures. They report more financial worries, discrimination, and stress at school and home. Young migrant women, in particular, show significantly higher stress levels compared to their peers.
Worries about war have risen sharply, with 40 percent now feeling burdened by conflict—up from 25 percent in the previous survey. Meanwhile, fewer young people believe they can solve problems alone. About one in ten turn to artificial intelligence for help, roughly the same number who seek professional counselling.
Digital habits also play a role in their well-being. Twenty-six percent said social media or gaming improved their mood, but one in five admitted their media use was problematic. In Germany, two-thirds of 12- to 19-year-olds use AI tools, mainly for learning support. While similar data for Switzerland is limited, AI-powered mental health apps like ephoria are now available for young adults.
The findings suggest that while many young people feel mentally stable, external pressures and digital influences are growing concerns. Schools, families, and policymakers may need to address these challenges to better support their well-being. The study also points to the increasing role of AI as both a tool and a potential risk in their lives.
