A major global study published in The Lancet has found that nearly 1.2 billion people worldwide were living with mental disorders in 2023, marking a 95.5% increase since 1990.
The findings highlight a growing global health concern with experts warning that mental health challenges are rising across all regions, age groups and socioeconomic backgrounds.
Anxiety and Depression Dominate
The study shows that anxiety and depression remain the most widespread mental health conditions.
Anxiety disorders increased by 158%
Depression rose by 131%
Other conditions such as bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder and eating disorders also recorded increases, though at different levels.
The research is based on data from the Global Burden of Disease Study, covering 204 countries and territories making it one of the most comprehensive global health analyses.
Shift Toward Younger Age Groups
A notable trend is the increasing burden on younger populations.
For the first time, individuals aged 15 to 19 years show the highest levels of mental health burden replacing the traditionally affected middle-aged groups.
Experts warn this is particularly concerning because adolescence is a critical stage for emotional, cognitive and social development. Early mental health issues can have long-term consequences on education, employment and relationships.
Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic significantly worsened mental health trends.
Although anxiety and depression were already rising before the pandemic, both conditions surged during the crisis. Anxiety levels peaked and remained elevated, while depression rates have not returned to pre-pandemic levels.
Multiple Factors Driving the Increase
Researchers emphasize that the rise in mental disorders is driven by a combination of factors, including:
Economic uncertainty and unemployment
Political conflict and instability
Social isolation and weakening community ties
Trauma, discrimination,
and violence
Limited access to mental health servicesImproved awareness and reduced stigma have also contributed to higher reporting and diagnosis.
Growing Gap in Mental Health Services
Despite the increasing burden, mental health services have not expanded at the same pace.
Experts stress that millions still lack access to proper care, diagnosis and treatment. This gap is particularly severe in low- and middle-income countries.
Conclusion
The study underscores that mental health is becoming a central global public health challenge.
Experts call for urgent, coordinated action to improve access to care, strengthen health systems and address the root causes of mental distress. Without intervention, the growing burden could have lasting social and economic impacts worldwide.
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Asian Burg | Health / Global Trends
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