The vast majority of under 35s rate their mental health as excellent, according to research from Aviva.
The insurer’s Story of Health research which polled 2,000 consumers found around three quarters of 25-to-34-year-olds rated their mental health as good or excellent, well above the 62% average across all age groups.
Their happiness levels stood out with 73% reporting they felt happy, compared to 59% across all age groups. This generation also reported better sleep quality.
Meaningful relationships
The findings highlighted the key to good health was not just in diet and exercise, but in meaningful relationships, community involvement, and a strong sense of belonging.
More than a quarter (28%) of 25–34-year-olds regularly participated in community groups, clubs, or social activities – nearly double the average across all age groups of 15%.
Around three quarters (73%) volunteered, with a fifth (20%) doing so through their employer.
This compared to around two in five (43%) who volunteered across all age groups.
Around seven in ten (68%) felt a sense of belonging to their local community, higher than any other age group and around three quarters (73%) of 25–34-year-olds intentionally spent time in nature to support their wellbeing, compared to 65% across all age groups.
Furthermore, across all age groups, two thirds of respondents (66%) who rated their mental health as good said they felt a sense of belonging in their local community.
By contrast, only one in five (20%) of those with poor mental health said they felt a sense of belonging to their local community.
Social prescribing
The survey also revealed a growing movement toward social prescribing, where individuals are encouraged to engage in community-based activities like nature walks, gardening, and volunteering to support their mental and physical health.
More than two thirds (68%) of 25-34s surveyed would consider social prescribing as an alternative to medication like antidepressants. This compares to 58% across all age groups.
Dr Subashini M, medical and sustainability director of Aviva Health UK (pictured), said: “Social connection is one of the most powerful drivers of health and wellbeing.
“Whether it’s a chat with a colleague, support from family, or simply feeling part of a community, these moments of connection can help lift mood, reduce stress, and build resilience.
“Employers have a vital role to play in fostering these connections. The workplace should be a space of psychological safety, where people feel seen, heard, and valued. Wellbeing isn’t just about individual habits, it’s about the people around us, and the strength we draw from them.”
