Global prevalence of mental disorders 2021

A World Health Organization (WHO) report shows that in 2021, nearly one in eight people globally—about 970 million individuals—were living with a mental disorder.

Anxiety and depressive disorders were the most common, accounting for a significant share of the burden.

The report highlighted that the COVID-19 pandemic triggered a sharp 25 percent increase in anxiety and depression worldwide, straining already limited mental health services.

WHO emphasized that mental disorders remain a leading cause of disability, calling for urgent investment in community-based care, stronger mental health systems, and greater access to psychosocial support, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.