dw.com
Global Mental Health Crisis: 1 Billion People Affected, Underserved
A new World Health Organization (WHO) report reveals that over 1 billion people globally suffer from mental disorders, representing 14% of the world's population and highlighting a major global health problem, with significant underserved populations and high economic costs.
- What is the scope and impact of the global mental health crisis, according to the WHO report?
- The WHO report indicates that over 1 billion people worldwide—14% of the global population—live with mental disorders. This constitutes a major global health concern, with the majority of those affected residing in low- and middle-income countries and lacking adequate care.
- What are the most prevalent mental disorders, and how do they disproportionately affect certain demographics?
- Depressive and anxiety disorders account for over two-thirds of cases, affecting approximately 332 million and 359 million people globally, respectively. Women are more affected by depression and anxiety, while men experience higher rates of ADHD, autism, and intellectual developmental disorders. Eating disorders are more common in older women, with twice the prevalence compared to men by age 20.
- What are the long-term economic and social consequences of the inadequate response to the global mental health crisis?
- The economic burden is substantial; depression and anxiety alone cost the global economy over \$1 trillion annually in lost productivity. Germany, for example, estimates annual costs at \$147 billion (13% of total healthcare costs). Furthermore, inadequate access to care results in significantly reduced life expectancy for those with mental disorders (9 years less for those with schizophrenia, and 13 years less for those with bipolar disorder). The WHO calls for increased investment and a policy shift recognizing mental health as a fundamental human right.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article presents a factual overview of the WHO report on mental health, focusing on the prevalence and economic impact of various mental disorders. There's no significant framing bias evident; the information is presented relatively neutrally, although the emphasis on the severity and scale of the problem might be interpreted as framing it negatively.
Bias by Omission
While comprehensive in its coverage of the WHO report's findings, the article could benefit from including information on potential solutions and successful interventions beyond increased funding and policy changes. It primarily focuses on the problem's magnitude and severity. Additionally, it lacks specific information regarding regional disparities in access to care, which could provide a more nuanced understanding.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article highlights the significant global burden of mental health disorders, affecting 14% of the world's population. It emphasizes the insufficient access to quality mental healthcare, with 91% of those affected not receiving appropriate treatment. This directly impacts SDG 3, which aims to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages. The lack of access to mental healthcare contributes to preventable suffering, disability, and premature mortality, hindering progress towards SDG 3 targets related to mental health.