People in the UK found to have the WORST mental health in Europe

More than one in three people in the UK are impacted by poor mental health, according to global data.

Almost a third (30 per cent) who are experiencing mental health issues said they are potentially affected by depression, anxiety or stress at severe or more extreme levels.

The report reveals a range of factors negatively impacting mental health, with half of those questioned citing uncertainty about the future in a rapidly changing world as the biggest issue.

The sixth annual AXA Mind Health Report was conducted by AXA in partnership with Ipsos and surveyed 19,000 people aged between 18 and 75 from 18 countries around the world.

The alarming figures in this year’s report also highlights the barriers for those with a mental health concern seeking support, with 60 per cent saying they haven’t visited a mental health professional in the past 12 months and 25 per cent fearing being stigmatised or judged negatively.

This has potentially led to people using technology as a replacement for medical help, with almost half (46 per cent) of Brits turning to AI tools for mental health support, although this is below the global average of 63 per cent.

A third (33 per cent) use AI tools to self-manage their mental health and 42 per cent trust them more than a mental health professional for guidance. Opinions on AI-generated mental health advice are divided – 57 per cent found it helpful, while 43 per cent said they were dissatisfied with the advice received.

Worryingly, more than a quarter (27 per cent) revealed some AI recommendations led them to engage in harmful behaviour.

Tara Foley, CEO of AXA UK & Ireland said: “It’s deeply concerning to see that the UK ranks as having the worst mental health in Europe. Our report shows that over a third of the population is impacted by mental health issues, and many people still face barriers to getting the support they need.

“These aren’t just statistics – the numbers represent real lives and real struggles that deserve our attention and compassion. Many people turn to digital tools for help and, while AI can be useful and quick to access, it’s no substitute for the empathy and expertise that healthcare professionals provide.

“That’s why as a health insurer we provide our members with fast access to mental health support and encourage them to access these services as early as needed, to help prevent people feeling worse or reaching crisis point.”

The mixed view of the support that AI provides for mental health is also consistent with how people view the influence of AI in the workplace and for some people it is adding to their worries.

An additional survey of 2,000 UK adults, conducted by OnePoll.com, explored the impact of AI on the workplace and found a third are concerned about the influence of it on their career, while 29 per cent feel anxious and pessimistic about the use of the tools in the workplace.

As a result, one in five (21 per cent) are considering switching careers to roles in industries they view as more future-proof, such as technology (30 per cent) or healthcare (20 per cent).

Despite these concerns, more than a quarter (27 per cent) already use AI at work, with 21 per cent engaging with it multiple times a week. Research (51 per cent), administrative tasks (40 per cent) and data analysis and insights generation (36 per cent) are the most common uses for it in the workplace.

Tara Foley added: “Our research reveals that people hold different views on AI in the workplace. While many employees are embracing these time-saving tools, others are equally worried about the impact it may have on their career.

“AI is transforming the way we work and it’s important for organisations to help their people develop the skills needed to thrive in this changing environment. Just as important is making sure that employees’ mental health and wellbeing is protected and looked after so that everyone feels supported, heard and valued during this transition.”