In a new brief on the subject, the World Health Organization shows that in 2020, cases of major depressive disorders and anxiety disorders increased by 27.6% and 25.6% respectively worldwide.
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Ill-being, fatigue… The Covid-19 pandemic has serious consequences for mental health, with a jump of more than 25% in cases of anxiety and depression in the world, according to a memoir by theWorld Health Organization (WHO) made public Wednesday March 2. The WHO also notes that the health crisis has, in many cases, significantly hindered access to mental health services and raised concerns about the increase in suicidal behavior.
This document, compiled from multiple studies, shows that in 2020, cases of major depressive disorders and anxiety disorders increased by 27.6% and 25.6% respectively worldwide. This is “a very significant increase”said Brandon Gray, from the Department of Mental Health and Substance Use at WHO, who coordinated the brief.
Logically enough, the countries hardest hit by the pandemic in 2020 saw the largest increases in the prevalence of the disorders. Women were more affected than men, and younger people, especially 20-24 year olds, were more affected than older age groups.
The brief shows that there is a higher risk of suicidal behaviors, including suicide attempts and instances of self-harm, among young people since the pandemic. The loneliness and exhaustion of healthcare personnel also increase the risk of suicidal thoughts.