Half of us might have mental problems by the age of 75: A new study

While some people believe that only few people have mental problems, it's simply not true - and a new study shows it.

A global study co-led by researchers from The University of Queensland and Harvard Medical School has revealed alarming statistics about mental health disorders. 

Here's what they have found.

An alarming study

The study analyzed data from more than 150,000 adults across 29 countries between 2001 and 2022, taken from the World Health Organization's World Mental Health Survey initiative. 

The findings indicate that a staggering one in two people will develop a mental health disorder at some point in their lifetime. 

The prevalence is high, with 50 percent of the population experiencing at least one disorder by the age of 75.

The most common mental health disorders were mood disorders, such as major depression and anxiety. 

Lots of people experience it earlier in life

Interestingly, the research found that mental health disorders often first emerge in childhood, adolescence, or young adulthood. 

The peak age of onset was around 15 years old, with a median age of onset at 19 for men and 20 for women. 

This underscores the importance of investing in basic neuroscience to understand why these disorders develop and in mental health services tailored to support young people promptly.

That's why it's important

The researchers stressed the need for timely detection and treatment of common mental disorders, emphasizing the significance of allocating resources to provide appropriate support for individuals at risk. 

The study's wide-ranging data from diverse populations offers valuable insights into the frequency and timing of mental disorder onset, contributing to the development of effective public health interventions and mental health strategies worldwide.
 

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• 4 August 2023

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