According to a major study, it is projected that by the age of 75, approximately half of the world’s population could be affected by mental health conditions such as depression or anxiety. This conclusion was drawn from an analysis of over 156,000 adults from 29 countries, spanning two decades of data from the World Health Organization (WHO). The study indicates a stark increase from the previous estimate in 2019, which suggested that only one in every eight individuals would experience a mental health disorder.
The research revealed that the overall risk of developing a mental illness during a lifetime was 46 percent for males and slightly higher at 53 percent for females. Furthermore, women were found to be at the greatest risk for post-traumatic stress disorder, while men were more likely to abuse alcohol. Anxiety disorders and major depression were more common among women, whereas alcohol abuse was more prevalent among men. Specific phobias and major depressive disorder were equally common across both sexes.
This study, conducted by researchers from Harvard Medical School and the University of Queensland in Australia, utilized the largest collection of face-to-face interviews on mental health. The data was gathered from the WHO’s Mental Health Survey, consisting of interviews conducted between 2001 and 2022 in 29 countries, including the US, Australia, Japan, and several countries in Europe, Africa, and South America. The findings were published in the journal Lancet Psychiatry.
According to Dr. John McGrath, the lead author of the study, mood disorders such as major depression and anxiety were the most common mental health issues. The study also highlighted the age of onset for these disorders, which typically occurs around the age of 15. This information is critical for developing targeted interventions and allocating resources to individuals at risk.
The study further emphasized that the mental health crisis is not limited to the US but has reached global proportions. Rates of mental illness have been on the rise in the US, accompanied by an increase in the number of suicides. The analysis underscores the need for increased investment in diagnosing and treating mental health disorders at an early age. Early intervention can greatly enhance an individual’s chances of leading a healthier, longer life.
The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated the mental health crisis, particularly among American teens. The abrupt shift to online schooling and the lack of social interaction with friends have taken a toll on their mental well-being. A report by the CDC indicated that in 2021, 10.2 percent of US high school students reported having attempted suicide in the past 12 months, compared to around 8 percent in 2019. Furthermore, 29.3 percent of American high schoolers reported struggling with poor mental health in the past year, with female students being disproportionately affected.
It is clear that the US and the rest of the world are facing a significant mental health crisis. Access to timely and appropriate support is crucial, necessitating increased financial and social investments in mental healthcare. This crisis should not be overlooked, as proactive measures can make a significant difference in the lives of those affected.
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