Young adults constitute the biggest share of new PIP anxiety claimants

The Press Association’s review of Department for Work & Pensions data shows that 7,403 people aged 16-24, about 30% of recent claimants, have started receiving Personal Independence Payment for anxiety disorders. A further 5,445 claimants are aged 25-34, meaning more than half of new anxiety-related PIP recipients are under 35. Overall, 72,195 claimants list anxiety as their primary condition, with younger age groups far outnumbering those over 45.

Psychiatrist Jed Boardman cautioned that official figures likely miss co-existing conditions such as autism or physical health issues. The analysis also broke down specific disorders, noting that 35% of social phobia claimants are under 25 and 13% of panic-disorder claimants fall in the same age range. A government-commissioned review of PIP’s cost and operation, following an interim report labeling the scheme “no longer fit for purpose,” is slated for release later this autumn. Officials say the rise in PIP caseload has slowed and stress reforms and mental-health investment.