Global Mental Disorders Affect 1.2 Billion People Study

A new global study estimates that nearly 1.2 billion people were living with mental health disorders in 2023, highlighting a sharp long-term rise in cases across the world over the past three decades.

The findings, based on the Global Burden of Diseases, Injuries and Risk Factors analysis led by the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation at the University of Washington, show a 95.5% increase in mental health disorders since 1990. The study examined data from 204 countries and territories and tracked 12 major mental health conditions over time.

Researchers identified anxiety and depression as the most common mental health disorders globally. Anxiety cases rose by 158% between 1990 and 2023, while depression increased by 131% over the same period.

Although less prevalent, conditions such as schizophrenia, eating disorders, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism spectrum disorder, personality disorders and intellectual disabilities were also recorded in significant numbers.

The study found notable gender differences, with ADHD, autism spectrum disorder and conduct disorders more commonly reported among males, while anxiety, depression and most other conditions were more prevalent among females.

Experts say the Covid-19 pandemic further worsened an already rising trend. While mental health disorders were increasing before the pandemic, rates of anxiety and depression rose further during the crisis and have remained above pre-pandemic levels through 2023.

Researchers also found a significant shift in age patterns. Mental health disorders are now most common among people aged 15 to 39, with the highest burden recorded in the 15–19 age group. This is the first time teenagers have emerged as the most affected group in the global dataset.

Health experts suggest several possible reasons behind the increase in reported cases, including improved diagnosis, reduced stigma, population growth, and greater willingness among people to seek treatment compared to previous decades.

At the same time, researchers point to deeper structural pressures contributing to worsening mental health worldwide. These include economic insecurity, conflict, trauma, lack of access to healthcare, social isolation, discrimination, environmental stress, and intimate partner violence.

Experts note that young people are particularly exposed to these combined pressures, making them more vulnerable to mental health challenges.

The study also warns that mental health services have not expanded at the same pace as rising demand, creating a widening global treatment gap.

Researchers stress that addressing mental health must become a higher global priority, with stronger investment in services, prevention, and early intervention.

They also highlight supportive measures that can help improve mental wellbeing, including adequate sleep, regular physical activity, balanced nutrition, strong social connections, and access to professional care when needed.

Despite growing awareness, experts say mental health remains underfunded and unevenly addressed across countries, making it one of the most pressing global health challenges of the modern era.