Global mental health crisis deepens: 1 in 8 people affected

International Desk, PNN

The World Health Organization (WHO) has highlighted the mental health crisis as one of the key topics at the 79th World Health Assembly held in Geneva, Switzerland. More than 75 global health issues are being discussed at the conference, with particular concern over the worsening mental health situation.

According to the latest WHO data, more than 1 billion people worldwide—meaning one in every eight individuals—are currently living with some form of mental health condition. The organization says this number is increasing every year, posing a major global public health concern.

The report states that young people are the most affected by this crisis. At the same time, suicide rates are relatively higher among men, while anxiety and depression are more common among women.

Experts say that despite the scale of the problem, investment in mental health remains extremely low. On average, only about 2% of global public health budgets are allocated to mental health services, which is far below what is required, according to WHO.

According to WHO and international diagnostic guidelines, mental health conditions affect a person’s thoughts, emotions, and behavior. These include various types of disorders.

Examples include mood disorders such as depression and bipolar disorder; anxiety disorders such as generalized anxiety disorder and panic disorder; psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia; and trauma-related conditions such as PTSD.

In addition, eating disorders, personality disorders, OCD, substance use disorders, and dissociative disorders are also included in this category.

WHO says mental health conditions occur across all income levels, but treatment facilities are extremely limited in low- and middle-income countries. Per capita spending in many countries is only a few cents, while in high-income countries it is significantly higher.

Regional estimates suggest that mental health disorders are more prevalent in the Americas, Europe, and the Eastern Mediterranean region, although significant numbers are also affected in Africa.

A separate analysis states that around 740,000 people die by suicide every year worldwide—meaning one person every 43 seconds. It is one of the leading causes of death among people aged 15 to 29.

The suicide rate among men is nearly four times higher than among women. Vulnerable populations such as refugees, indigenous communities, and LGBTQ+ groups face even higher risks.

Globally, about 359 million people suffer from anxiety disorders and around 332 million people suffer from depression. Women are more affected by these two conditions, according to the report.

Experts warn that untreated mental illness can worsen over time and increase the risk of suicide.

WHO states that mental health has become one of the leading causes of long-term disability and illness worldwide, requiring urgent global action.