To make matters worse, in the first year of COVID-19 pandemic, rates of common conditions such as depression and anxiety, have increased by more than 25%, the United Nations health agency (WHO) said on Friday.
In the largest review of mental health since the turn of the century, the World Health Organization called on even more countries to face worse conditions.
It provided examples of good practice that should be implemented as quickly as possible, to recognize the important role mental health plays in positive and sustainable development, at all levels.
Tedros: A must-have for change
“Who has a mental illness in their life?,” said WHO Director-General, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus. “Good mental health equals good physical health and this new report is a compelling case for change.
“The close link between mental health and public health, human rights and socioeconomic development means that Transforming policy and practice in the field of mental health can have real and substantive benefits for individuals, communities and countries everywhere. An investment in mental health is an investment in a better life and future for all. ”
Even before the advent of COVID-19, only a small fraction of people in need of help had access to effective, affordable and quality mental health treatment, the WHO said, citing data. Latest global data from 2019.
For example, more than 70% of people with mental disorders worldwide don’t get the help they needUnited Nations agency said.
Yes and No
The gap between rich and poor countries shows unequal access to health care, as 7 out of 10 people with mental disorders receive treatment in high-income countries, compared with just 12 % in low-income countries.
The situation is more dramatic in cases of depressionThe WHO said, pointing to gaps in support in all countries – including high-income countries – where only a third of people with depression receive formal mental health care.
And although high-income countries provide “minimally appropriate” treatment for depression in 23% of cases, that number drops to just under 23%. 3% in low and middle income countries.
“We need to change attitudes, actions and approaches to promote and protect mental health, and provide and care for those in need.,” said WHO’s Tedros. “We can and should do this by transforming the environments that affect our mental health and by developing community-based mental health services capable of achieving coverage.” public health for mental health.
