Mental health in times of multiple crises

Maren van Treel

Mental health is just as important as physical health for individual and social development. This makes the WHO’s estimate all the more alarming: one in eight people worldwide lives with a mental disorder. A recent international study found that one in two people will probably develop at least one mental disorder in their lifetime. Risk factors include poverty, violence and displacement, as well as global disasters such as the Covid-19 pandemic and climate change. All those who are committed to combating these issues are therefore also doing important preventive work to promote mental health.

At the same time, those who are already suffering must receive support. Mental health professionals are urgently needed worldwide, yet their availability varies greatly. According to the latest WHO Mental Health Atlas from 2020, Africa has 1.6 mental health professionals per 100,000 inhabitants, whereas Europe has 44.8. Even where provision is good, questions remain: Who can afford mental healthcare?  

Social acceptance also matters a great deal. In many societies, mental health issues remain a taboo subject. This stigma must be broken: the less those affected judge themselves, the more likely they are to seek professional help. It is therefore crucial not to equate mental illness with weakness. Rather, it is part of being human – and those affected should be given the help they need. 

We hope you enjoy reading this newsletter. Please feel free to share your opinions, criticisms and suggestions by emailing us at euz.editor@dandc.eu.

Maren van Treel

social media editor at D+C

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