Mental health and meaning in modern life among young adults in Norway

Abstract

Mental health concerns are increasing among young adults in Western societies, including Norway. While rising distress is well documented, fewer studies investigate how meaning in life and everyday social behaviour relate to mental well-being – especially in highly secular, individualised contexts. This study examines how mental health symptoms among Norwegian young adults are associated with perceived meaning, social commitment, screen time, and time spent in nature. A total of 713 first-year students aged 18–21 from different education institutions completed a survey including the SCL-10 (mental health symptoms), The Meaning and Purpose Scales (MAPS), and behavioural measures. Analyses included correlations, t-tests, MANOVA, and hierarchical regressions. Higher levels of psychological distress were strongly associated with lower perceived meaningfulness and higher crisis of meaning. Social commitment correlated with better mental health and stronger meaning scores across several MAPS domains, including spirituality and community connection. Screen time was positively associated with distress, while time in nature was linked to higher meaning. Guided by different theoretical psychological and sociological perspectives, the findings suggest that existential resources – especially meaningfulness, social engagement, and resonance with nature – play a central role in young people’s mental health. Conversely, excessive digital engagement may disrupt these sources of orientation. The study contributes to existential health research by combining psychological and sociocultural theory in a secular setting. Policy and educational strategies should support young people’s access to resonant, meaning-oriented environments, with special attention to screen balance, social participation, and nature-based experiences.