Residents most concerned about mental health issues, national security, use of state language

RIGA - During the past 12 months, Latvia's residents have been most of all concerned about mental health issues, national security, the use of the state language, and savings opportunities, according to a survey carried out by research company Kantar.

Kantar survey was conducted to determine how different global and local developments influenced people's moods and attitudes toward current affairs in Latvia.

According to the findings of the survey, over the last 12 months issues of mental health have been the most frequent concern for residents of Latvia, with 41 percent of respondents stating so, national security has been a concern for 39 percent of respondents, the importance of using the national language has been noted by 38 percent of respondents, and opportunities for saving money by 35 percent of respondents.

Mental health issues - burnout and depression - were more frequently mentioned as the biggest concern by people aged 40 to 54 (47 percent).

39 percent of respondents are concerned about national security matters, but this was less frequently noted by those aged 20-34 (33 percent).

The use of the national language was more frequently noted as important by older residents aged 61-74 (45 percent).

According to the survey, the rising prices and saving opportunities were more important for people aged 40-54 (41 percent), and less important for people aged 25-39 (29 percent).

When asked what events had a positive impact on residents' mood, the most frequent answers were the Latvian athletes' successful performance, noted by 31 percent of respondents, the Song and Dance Festival events (29 percent), and remote working opportunities (25 percent).

The survey was carried out in March and April of 2024 by interviewing 1,200 residents aged 16-74 on the Internet.