A recent study published in The Lancet reveals a significant surge in the global burden of mental disorders, with these conditions now identified as the leading cause of disability worldwide. The findings indicate that mental health issues have surpassed cardiovascular disease, cancer, and musculoskeletal problems in terms of their impact on global health. The research, conducted by teams from The University of Queensland, the Queensland Centre for Mental Health Research (QCMHR) in Australia, and the University of Washington in the United States, highlights the escalating prevalence of mental health challenges across the globe.
The study estimates that approximately 1.2 billion people worldwide were living with a mental disorder in 2023, nearly double the number reported in 1990. This increase is primarily attributed to the rising incidence of anxiety and depression, with young individuals aged 15-19 and women being disproportionately affected. The data underscores the need for increased attention and resources to address the growing mental health crisis, particularly among vulnerable populations. Information reaching TahirRihat.com suggests that the findings emphasize the long-term consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic and the impact of socio-economic factors on mental well-being.
The study reveals that in 2023, 620 million women worldwide were living with a mental disorder, compared to 552 million men. Mental disorders accounted for more than 17 percent of all years lived with disability worldwide, further emphasizing the significant impact of these conditions on overall health and well-being. Researchers analyzed trends from the Global Burden of Diseases, Injuries, and Risk Factors Study 2023, focusing on 12 mental disorders, including anxiety disorders, major depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, autism spectrum disorders, ADHD, and eating disorders.
In India, the age-standardized prevalence of anxiety disorders across both sexes was almost 2,592 per one lakh population in 1990. This number increased by 123.5 percent to 5,793 per one lakh population in 2023. The prevalence of these disorders increased among women by 136.7 percent during 1990-2023, compared to a 102 percent increase among men. Damian Santomauro, associate professor at the Queensland Centre for Mental Health Research in partnership with the University of Queensland, suggests that these rising trends may reflect the lingering effects of pandemic-related stress and longer-term structural drivers such as poverty, insecurity, abuse, violence, and declining social connectedness.
Santomauro emphasized the urgent need for sustained investment in mental health systems, expanded access to care, and coordinated global action to better support populations most at risk. The study highlights the significant health burden imposed by mental disorders across countries and territories in 2023, regardless of available health resources, demonstrating a consistent and growing problem that requires stronger surveillance, especially in low and middle-income countries.
The study further indicates that women experienced higher rates of anxiety and depression in 2023, while neurodevelopmental and behavioral disorders such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), conduct disorder, and autism are more prevalent in males, typically peaking during adolescence. Globally, the highest burden of mental disorders was observed in the 15-19 age group, highlighting the critical need for early prevention and targeted support for young people.
It is important to note that the World Health Organization released a report in September 2025 estimating that more than a billion people globally were living with a mental health condition in 2021, with anxiety and depressive disorders accounting for two-thirds of all cases. The WHO report analyzed data from the ‘Global Health Estimates 2021’ and the ‘Global Burden of Diseases, Injuries and Risk Factors Study 2021’. Alize Ferrari, from the University of Queensland’s school of public health, stated that the findings show the response to mental disorders globally is not sufficient.
According to Ferrari, the high burden exists regardless of a country’s resource availability. She further noted that while more research is necessary, data quality and availability likely contribute to the global trends. Ferrari also cited various risk factors for mental disorders, including child maltreatment, domestic violence, genetics, rising inequality, decline in social cohesiveness, the impact of climate change, pandemics, war, and natural disasters. (Agencies)
Tahir Rihat (also known as Tahir Bilal) is an independent journalist, activist, and digital media professional from the Chenab Valley of Jammu and Kashmir, India. He is best known for his work as the Online Editor at The Chenab Times.