Global Mental Disorders Rise 95.5% Since 1990 Fueling Concern
New study shows nearly 1.2 billion affected, with anxiety and depression leading the surge.
Dr. Nana Asare | StatsGH |
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The study analyzed 12 mental disorders across 204 countries and territories. It identified differing trends by age, sex, and location. Researchers expressed concern about a worsening global mental disorder burden. Dr. Damian Santomauro, the study's lead author, stated it was shocking. He is an associate professor at the University of Queensland. Many factors contribute to this rise. Global leadership is needed to tackle root causes.
Other mental disorders examined include bipolar disorder. Schizophrenia, autism spectrum disorder, and ADHD were also studied. Anorexia, bulimia, dysthymia, and conduct disorder were included. Developmental intellectual disability of unknown causes was also tracked. Dysthymia is a long-term mild depression, also known as persistent depressive disorder. Conduct disorder affects children and teens. It involves consistent disobedient and aggressive behavior.
The research documented increases in all 12 disorders. Anxiety disorders rose by 158%. Depression increased by 131% compared to 1990 levels. Anorexia, bulimia, and schizophrenia were the least common. However, they are still significant. Around 4 million had anorexia. 14 million had bulimia. 26 million had schizophrenia in 2023.
Mental disorders were more common in females. Males experienced higher rates of autism and conduct disorder. ADHD, personality disorders, and unexplained intellectual disability were also more frequent in males. The study also shed light on the Covid-19 pandemic's impact. Pre-pandemic rates of anxiety and depression were already climbing. During and after the pandemic, depression rates climbed. They have not returned to pre-pandemic levels. Anxiety peaked and stayed high through 2023.
Paul Bolton, a senior scientist at Johns Hopkins, commented. He noted that underreporting is a common problem. Mental illness data accuracy is challenging. He stated these estimates are the best available. They are likely the closest to real global figures. Bolton was not involved in the study.
The research used data from the 2023 Global Burden of Diseases study. This is a large effort measuring health worldwide. It is primarily funded by the Gates Foundation.
A significant finding is the shift to younger people. Mental disorders are a leading cause of disability. Females and people aged 15 to 39 are most affected. The peak in the 15-19 year old group is unprecedented. This age range is crucial for brain development. Interrupted development can have lasting effects.
Experts point to several contributing factors. Reduced stigma means more people seek help. Improved detection and diagnosis also play a role. Population growth and longer lifespans contribute too. However, experts acknowledge difficult living conditions. Genetics and economic instability are common triggers. Trauma, inadequate healthcare, and political conflict add to the burden. Warfare, food insecurity, and violence are also factors. Discrimination, declining social connections, and environmental threats worsen the situation. The pandemic uniquely affected young people. More data is needed on specific causes in this age group.