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19th November 2024
11:22am GMT
A generational health gap is emerging in Ireland, with young people aged 16-34 scoring significantly lower in both physical and mental wellbeing metrics compared to older generations.
According to the latest Irish Life 2024 Health of the Nation report, younger adults are facing growing health challenges, revealing a concerning trend in lifestyle habits and mental wellbeing.
Ireland’s overall health status is declining, as the National Health Score dropped for the fifth consecutive year; reaching a score of 520 in 2024, down from 523 in 2023.
This marks a 4.7% decline since 2019, highlighting the urgent need for a nationwide shift toward healthier lifestyle choices.
Among the most alarming findings is the fact that 100,000 more people in Ireland are now classified as being in “poor health,” with more than half (54%) of those aged 16-34 falling into this category - significantly higher than the national average of 26%.
The research shows concerning trends among young people, particularly in relation to smoking and vaping.
More than 1 in 3 (36%) young adults are now smoking or vaping, suggesting that these habits are beginning in adolescence and early adulthood.
This is a troubling increase, according to experts, as overall smoking and vaping rates among adults have also risen to 27%, up from 23% in 2023.
It's no secret that these habits have long-term health consequences, and the rising number of younger adults taking up the habit points to the need for more health education and support for this age group.
In terms of physical health, the report also shows that 6 in 10 adults in Ireland are now considered overweight or obese.
The average weight of the population has risen from 79kg in 2023 to 81kg in 2024, contributing to a national average Body Mass Index (BMI) of 27.1, which falls into the overweight category.
Notably, 37% of Irish adults are now spending more than half of their day in a sedentary position - a lifestyle factor that contributes to weight gain and various health issues such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes.
Mental health issues are also a significant concern for younger adults, according to the report.
The research shows that 1 in 4 adults (25%) say they are feeling stressed, depressed, or anxious for more than half the time.
The mental health of young people, in particular, appears to be getting worse, with many saying they find it difficult coping with the pressures of daily life.
This is mirrored by global research showing a lack of post-pandemic recovery in terms of mental health, particularly among younger generations.
The report states that workplace managers are increasingly aware of mental health needs, with 63% of managers noting a growing demand for support in this area.
However, only 42% of employers believe their workplace is sufficiently equipped to provide this support.
This shows the importance of not only improving individual health but also fostering healthier environments within schools, workplaces, and communities to support young people’s mental wellbeing.
Despite these concerning trends, there is still a sense of optimism. The report shows that 89% of Irish adults remain hopeful about the future, with 90% confident in their ability to overcome challenges.
According to Dr. Carol Rogan, Psychologist at Irish Life Wellbeing: "We all have a part to play - government, employers, and individuals - to take action and reverse the downward trajectory we’ve seen in recent years."
The research clearly shows the need for greater focus on the health and wellbeing of young adults in Ireland.
While the challenges are significant, the report also highlights that many young people are eager to make positive changes.
The rise in awareness among employers about mental health, and the growing availability of external supports, offer hope for improving workplace wellbeing.
As well as this, the fact that many people feel empowered to change their lifestyles is a positive sign that with the right support, health outcomes can be improved.
