Mental Health, Income, and the Living Wage: Evidence from 91 Countries - 2026

In a global study involving more than 50,000 people from greater than 90 countries, we evaluated mental well-being across many dimensions. While global mental health is generally moderate, which is a concern, we also found significant patterns linking individual and national well-being to income relative to the living wage. These patterns reveal a significant message to employers and policymakers as costs of living rise: mental health is at risk globally if individuals and families do not see increases to their incomes and wealth that exceed the costs of survival. These findings are especially true for younger generations entering the workforce; even those from higher-income backgrounds are at risk as labor markets tighten, while others may face additional headwinds as they seek to advance their mental and financial well-being.

24 September 2026 | 3 pm - 4 pm CEST