The 2025 ABS General Social Survey reveals a gender gap in psychological distress that opens at the youngest age group measured and persists into the mid-30s. Behind the headline figures are patterns that rarely surface in public debate.
The gender gap is widest at the youngest age group and remains significant through to the mid-30s.
Source: ABS General Social Survey 2025 (Table 2.3). Psychological distress measured using the Kessler K10 scale. Very high = scores 30 to 50.
Across all four K10 categories, young women report higher distress than older age groups.
Source: ABS General Social Survey 2025 (Table 2.3). Women aged 15 years and over. Columns sum to 100%.
Among all age groups tracked since 2014, the 25 to 34 cohort has recorded the steepest decline in life satisfaction.
Source: ABS General Social Survey 2025 (Table 8.1). Mean score out of 10 where 0 = not at all satisfied and 10 = completely satisfied.
Contrary to expectations, distress rates are almost identical across major cities, regional and remote areas.
Source: ABS General Social Survey 2025 (Table 7.3). Persons aged 15 years and over. High distress = K10 scores 22 to 29, very high = 30 to 50.
A diagnosed mental health condition is the strongest predictor of very high distress, with rates six times higher than for those without a diagnosis.
Source: ABS General Social Survey 2025 (Table 3.3). Persons aged 15 years and over. Very high distress = K10 scores 30 to 50. Has condition = self-reported diagnosis.
Australian Bureau of Statistics. (2026, May 6). General Social Survey: Summary results, Australia, 2025 (Cat. no. 4159.0). https://www.abs.gov.au/statistics/people/people-and-communities/general-social-survey-summary-results-australia/latest-release