Mental disorders

  Key Facts About Mental Disorders

- **Prevalence**: Globally, one in eight people live with a mental disorder.

- **Nature**: Mental disorders involve significant disruptions in thinking, emotional regulation, or behaviour.

- **Variety**: There are numerous types of mental disorders, each with distinct characteristics.

- **Treatment**: Effective prevention and treatment options are available.

- **Access**: Many individuals do not have access to proper mental health care.

 Understanding Mental Disorders

A mental disorder is characterised by a significant disturbance in cognition, emotional regulation, or behaviour. These disruptions are typically associated with distress or impairment in important life functions. Mental disorders may also be referred to as "mental health conditions," a broader term that includes psychosocial disabilities and other conditions marked by distress, impaired functioning, or risk of self-harm. This overview focuses on mental disorders as outlined by the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11).

In 2019, around **970 million people** were living with a mental disorder, representing one in eight people worldwide. The most common mental health conditions were anxiety and depression. The COVID-19 pandemic significantly increased the number of people with these disorders, with anxiety cases rising by **26%** and major depression by **28%** within just a year. Despite the availability of effective prevention and treatment, most people with mental disorders do not receive adequate care and often face stigma and discrimination.

 Anxiety Disorders

In 2019, approximately **301 million people**, including 58 million children and adolescents, were living with an anxiety disorder. Anxiety disorders are characterised by excessive fear, worry, and related behavioural issues that cause significant distress or impair daily functioning. Various types of anxiety disorders include generalised anxiety disorder (excessive worry), panic disorder (panic attacks), social anxiety disorder (fear of social situations), and separation anxiety disorder (excessive fear of separation from loved ones). Effective treatments include psychological therapies, and in some cases, medication.

Depression

Depression affected **280 million people** in 2019, including 23 million children and adolescents. Depression differs from typical mood swings, manifesting as a prolonged period of sadness, irritability, or emptiness, often lasting for more than two weeks. Symptoms may include poor concentration, low self-worth, feelings of hopelessness, sleep disturbances, changes in appetite, and thoughts of death or suicide. Depression significantly increases the risk of suicide, but effective psychological treatments and, when necessary, medication can provide relief.

 Bipolar Disorder

In 2019, **40 million people** were affected by bipolar disorder. This condition involves alternating episodes of depression and mania. During depressive episodes, individuals experience feelings of sadness or loss of interest, while manic episodes may involve heightened mood, increased energy, racing thoughts, and impulsive behaviours. People with bipolar disorder face a higher risk of suicide, but treatments like psychoeducation, stress reduction, social support, and medication can be highly effective.

 Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

PTSD is especially common in conflict-affected areas. This disorder can develop after experiencing a traumatic event and is characterised by intrusive memories, avoidance of reminders, and a heightened sense of threat. These symptoms persist for several weeks, significantly impairing daily functioning. Effective psychological treatments are available for PTSD.

Schizophrenia

Schizophrenia affects around **24 million people** globally, or one in 300 individuals. Those with schizophrenia face a life expectancy **10-20 years** shorter than the general population. Schizophrenia is marked by persistent delusions, hallucinations, disorganised thinking, and behavioural changes. Despite these severe symptoms, effective treatment options, including medication, psychoeducation, and psychosocial rehabilitation, exist.

 Eating Disorders

In 2019, **14 million people**, including nearly 3 million children and adolescents, experienced eating disorders. Conditions like anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa involve abnormal eating behaviours and obsessive concerns about body weight. These disorders can cause significant health risks, distress, and functional impairments. Treatment options include family-based therapies and cognitive behavioural therapy.

 Disruptive Behaviour and Dissocial Disorders

In 2019, **40 million people**, many of them children, were diagnosed with conduct disorder or oppositional defiant disorder. These disorders involve persistent defiance, disobedience, or violation of the rights of others. Early intervention, involving parents, caregivers, and teachers, is critical. Effective psychological treatments, including social skills training, are available.

 Neurodevelopmental Disorders

Neurodevelopmental disorders include conditions like intellectual disabilities, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). These disorders typically arise during childhood and affect intellectual, motor, language, or social functions. ADHD is characterised by inattention and hyperactivity, while autism involves difficulties in social interaction and communication. Treatment options include behavioural therapies, occupational and speech therapy, and in some cases, medication.

 

Risk Factors for Mental Disorders

Mental health can be influenced by a combination of individual, family, and societal factors. While many people demonstrate resilience, those exposed to adversity—such as poverty, violence, or inequality—are at a higher risk of developing mental disorders. Protective and risk factors often involve emotional skills, genetics, and brain function.

 Health Systems and Social Support

Health systems around the world are inadequately equipped to meet the mental health needs of the population. A significant gap exists between the need for mental health care and its availability. For instance, only **29%** of people with psychosis and just one-third of those with depression receive professional care. Moreover, many mental health services are of poor quality. 

https://youtu.be/Piw2pH6hnEE?si=LWRY36y-4KVzmeIX Individuals with mental disorders also require social support to maintain relationships and participate in educational, employment, and community activities. Comprehensive care should include access to housing, employment, and social integration.

 WHO Response

The World Health Organization (WHO) is working to address these global challenges through its Comprehensive Mental Health Action Plan. This initiative focuses on improving mental health care access, reducing stigma, and promoting human rights for people with mental disorders.