Two-thirds of the global population and nearly half of Pakistanis are experiencing stress, prompting a significant increase in meditation, according to a new worldwide study.

The research, conducted by the Worldwide Independent Network of Market Research (WIN) and Gallup Pakistan, reveals 64% globally and 54% in Pakistan report feeling stressed. Correspondingly, meditation practice has risen, with 35% globally and 56% in Pakistan now incorporating it into their lives.

The WIN Worldviews Survey, encompassing 35,515 individuals across 40 nations, highlights this growing trend. Gallup Pakistan surveyed a representative sample of 1,000 Pakistanis between December 3, 2024, and January 2, 2025, for this research. The study emphasizes the increasing importance of mindfulness and meditation as coping mechanisms for emotional strain.

Frequent stress is more common among women (38%) than men (27%) and is higher in younger age groups, particularly 18-24-year-olds (38%) and 25-34-year-olds (37%). Unemployment (42%) and student status (40%) correlate with the highest stress levels. The survey indicates meditation is no longer a niche practice but a widely adopted strategy for managing psychological distress.

While meditation”s popularity is increasing globally, adoption rates differ significantly between countries. Over half the population meditates in India (79%), Morocco (57%), Pakistan (56%), Mexico (55%), Malaysia (55%), the US (54%), and the Philippines (51%). Considerably lower engagement is observed in nations like Indonesia (14%), Brazil (17%), and Norway (18%).

WIN President Richard Colwell emphasized that despite its ancient roots, meditation is becoming a crucial global response to modern stress. He expressed hope that these findings will initiate discussions about mental health and encourage policies to address this widespread concern.