We can magnify these things beyond the reality others experience. Given that it was a younger crowd, you may well have done so. Or, the perceived awkwardness may have been them sensing your own feelings.

Younger people are more open to these discussions than older generations, especially anxiety and depression challenges. I know in my age group (I'm pushing 60), such topics were out of bounds. But, in my son's generation (he's 18), they are more willing to not only discuss it, but to reach out when/if they feel a friend may be struggling.

I've also heard my son and his varied circles of friends, both in person and online, discussing the issue with some regularity, especially during Lockdown. They are far more comfortable with mental health topics than any generation I've known.