Young Filipinos turning to AI self-help tools amid rising mental health struggles

MANILA, Philippines — In an era defined by economic uncertainty, digital fatigue, and growing social isolation, young Filipinos are emerging at the forefront of a vital conversation: mental health.  According to AXA’s 2025 Mind Health Report, Filipinos, aged 18 to 34, are experiencing significantly higher levels of stress, anxiety, and depression than their global peers. Yet, they are also among the most proactive in seeking support through digital and AI-powered mental wellness tools. 

This year’s study offers deep insights into how Filipinos—especially the younger generation—are coping, adapting, and innovating in response to mental health challenges. 

Gen Z and Millennials Lead the Shift to Digital Mental Health 

The AXA Mind Health Index, a key component of the report, categorizes individuals into four distinct mental well-being states: 

• Flourishing, the pinnacle of positive mind health; 
• Getting by, where individuals show some areas of well-being but not enough to flourish; 
• Languishing, the absence of positive well-being; and 
• Struggling, the most vulnerable state, marked by challenges in most areas of life.  

A significant portion of Filipino youth identify as languishing or struggling—highlighting the urgent need for accessible, relevant, and proactive mental health solutions. 

According to the report, Filipinos aged 18 to 34 are more likely than older generations to suffer from severe mental health symptoms and are diagnosed with conditions at higher rates than their global peers. Despite these challenges, this age group shows strong resilience and initiative—39% turn to AI-powered mental health tools, well above the global average of 28%. In fact, half of all Filipinos now rely on digital platforms like websites, blogs, forums, and social media for mental health support. 

Stress Levels Among Working-Class Filipinos Among Highest Globally 

The report also reveals that nearly seven in ten Filipinos experience at least mild forms of anxiety, stress, or depression—among the highest rates globally. Key drivers include financial instability and job insecurity (76% vs 53% globally), uncertainty about the future (70% vs 53%), loneliness and social isolation (58% vs 42%), climate change anxiety (57% vs 38%), and exposure to negative news (55% vs 45%). 

Workplaces play a significant role in both stress and support. The data points to an opportunity for organizations to be part of the solution—by fostering psychologically safe environments, supporting mental health literacy, and encouraging open conversations. 

Building a Culture of Early Support 

As more young Filipinos turn to self-guided tools and digital channels for help, the availability of accessible resources for early mental health awareness and care becomes increasingly important. 

Simple, non-diagnostic tools – such as AXA’s Mind Health Self-Check—are helping individuals reflect on their mental state and take proactive steps when needed. Some health plans in the market have also begun to include free mental health consultations as part of their coverage, recognizing the importance of holistic care. Additionally, a growing number of protection solutions now acknowledge the reality of mental health conditions, with some beginning to incorporate coverage for select mental health conditions. 

“Because mental health is not just a personal issue—it’s a public one. And tackling it requires shared understanding, accessible tools, and sustained support,” said AXA Philippines CEO Ayman Kandil. “And while we still have a long way to address the gaps, know you can do something now and thrive with the right support.” 

The annual AXA Mind Health Report, now in its fifth year, explores global and local attitudes toward mental health and tracks emerging trends and behaviors that influence mental wellness across life stages and cultures. As one of the largest and fastest-growing insurance companies in the country, AXA Philippines aims to amplify the conversation around mind health and uncover opportunities for individuals, healthcare professionals, and policymakers to take action for a better global mind health. 

For more information about AXA Philippines' commitment to holistic well-being for all, visit  https://www.axa.com.ph.  

ABOUT AXA PHILIPPINES  

Established in 1999, AXA Philippines is one of the largest insurance companies in the country. It offers financial security to over a million individuals through its group and individual life insurance as well as general insurance products.  

AXA Philippines is one of the first to introduce bancassurance operations in the country and is among the pioneers in the investment-linked insurance sector.  

AXA Philippines is a joint venture between the AXA Group, headquartered in France, GT Capital Holdings, Inc. (GT Capital), a leading listed conglomerate in the Philippines, and Metropolitan Bank and Trust Company (Metrobank), one of the Philippines’ largest financial institutions. It is duly recognized by the Insurance Commission and has license to operate and engage in life and general insurance business under License No. 2025/14-R.  

For more information on AXA Philippines and their products, visit their website at www.axa.com.ph. 

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Media Relations:                                             

Rochelle Rivera                          
rochelle.rivera@axa.com.ph   

Abbie Remo 
abbie.remo@axa.com.ph