A major global study, co-led by experts from The University of Queensland and Harvard Medical School, has found that one in two people will experience a mental health disorder at some point in their lifetime. This research sheds light on the high prevalence of mental health issues and calls for more support and early intervention.
Key Findings
The study, which involved over 150,000 adults from 29 countries, analyzed data collected between 2001 and 2022. The findings were based on interviews from the World Health Organisation’s World Mental Health Survey, which is the largest of its kind.
By the age of 75, about 50% of the population will have developed at least one mental health disorder.
The most common disorders identified were mood disorders, such as major depression and anxiety.
The study also found that the risk of mental health disorders differs between men and women.
Most Common Disorders
The research highlighted the most common mental health issues in both women and men. For women, the top three were:
- Depression
- Specific phobia (anxiety that affects daily life)
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
For men, the most common were:
- Alcohol abuse
- Depression
- Specific phobia
When Do These Issues Start?
Mental health disorders often start in childhood, adolescence, or early adulthood. The peak age for the first signs of these issues is around 15 years old, with the median age of onset being 19 for men and 20 for women.
Why Early Intervention is Crucial
Given that mental health issues often begin so early, the researchers emphasized the importance of investing in mental health services, especially for young people. Early detection and treatment can make a big difference in managing these conditions.
Professor Ronald Kessler from Harvard Medical School explained that mental health services need to be tailored for young people, so they can get the support they need at critical stages in their lives. Understanding when mental health issues are likely to arise can help public health programs be more effective in reaching those who need help early.
Conclusion
This study highlights the widespread nature of mental health disorders and the urgent need for more resources and support for those affected. By focusing on early intervention, particularly in young people, we can help individuals manage these challenges and improve their overall well-being.
Source: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S2215036623001931…
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