Mental disorders weigh on development

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Extract from the article: According to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Development Report 2021-2022, nearly one billion people suffer from a mental disorder. About one in eight people worldwide suffer from a mental disorder. This gives an idea of the minimal s

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According to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Development Report 2021-2022, nearly one billion people suffer from a mental disorder. About one in eight people worldwide suffer from a mental disorder. This gives an idea of the minimal scale of the much larger problem of psychological distress, the UNDP warns. Mental disorders, such as post-traumatic stress disorder and depression, can develop when psychological distress is severe and untreated, the report says.

Globally, the UN agency says, mental health problems are the leading cause of disability. Yet only 10% of those who need it receive mental health care or attention. On average, countries spend less than 2% of their health budgets on mental health. "Mental disorders affect human development in many ways. In addition to being a health problem in itself, they are often associated with other health issues. They can interfere with school attendance and learning as well as the ability to find employment and be fully active," the document warns.

The stigma that often accompanies mental disorders makes matters worse. Interpersonal relationships are the second element that tends to be relied upon. But, says the UNDP, if these are also affected by mental disorders, people become even more isolated and vulnerable.

Elom AKAKPO