Global burden of anxiety disorders in adolescents and young adults aged 10–24 years from 1990 to 2021

OBJECTIVE: Anxiety disorders represent a major and growing global health issue, particularly among adolescents and young adults. This study analyzes the burden and trends of anxiety disorders in individuals aged 10-24 from 1990 to 2021. METHODS: Using data from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021, we examined global, regional, and national incidence, prevalence, and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) for anxiety disorders. Analyses were stratified by gender and age, and the association with the sociodemographic index (SDI) was assessed. RESULTS: The global burden of anxiety disorders in youth increased overall, with a sharp rise after 2019. In 2021, there were 16.67 million new cases globally among 10-24-year-olds, a 52% increase since 1990. Females consistently bore a higher burden than males (incidence rate: 1062.86 vs. 712.09 per 100,000). India, China, and the USA had the highest number of cases. A weak positive correlation was found between SDI and anxiety disorder burden. CONCLUSIONS: The escalating burden of anxiety disorders among global youth necessitates enhanced mental health education, public awareness, and targeted interventions. School-based mental health literacy programs and expanded telehealth services are urgently needed, especially in low- and middle-income countries. Further research into mechanisms and equitable access to care is crucial.