The study showed that disorders are more prevalent among women than among men.
A new study has shown that over the past three decades, the number of people with mental disorders has nearly doubled. According to an analysis recently published in the medical journal The Lancet as part of the Global Burden of Disease project, approximately 1.2 billion people (15% of the world's population) suffer from mental disorders.
Compared to 1990, this figure has increased by 95%. The number of cases of major depressive disorder and anxiety disorders has particularly surged, by 131% and 158% respectively. Today, these conditions are considered the most common mental disorders in the world.
The authors of the report emphasize that mental disorders cause significant suffering and lead to long-term health loss. The consequences affect not only the patients themselves but also their families, employers, and public systems. Mental illnesses are associated with decreased productivity, reduced participation in working life, and increased burden on social and medical services.
The study also showed that mental disorders are more prevalent among women than among men. Approximately 620 million cases were recorded among women, while men had 552 million cases. Researchers note that this may be influenced by lower self-esteem, increased pressure regarding appearance, and higher levels of domestic and sexual violence. Hormonal and biological changes, especially during the perinatal period, professional stress, and gender inequality may also play a role.
Among women, depression and anxiety disorders were the most common, as well as chronic depression, bipolar disorder, anorexia, and bulimia. In contrast, men were more frequently diagnosed with neurodevelopmental and behavioral disorders, including ADHD, autism, and conduct disorders.
The greatest burden on healthcare systems was observed among adolescents aged 15-19, which, according to the authors, highlights the need for early prevention and enhanced support for youth. Among the key risk factors, researchers identified childhood sexual violence, partner violence, and bullying. These circumstances are associated with an increased risk of developing depression, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, bulimia, and behavioral disorders.
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