Only 2% of the global health budget is allocated to mental health: Lancet report
The Lancet report on young people’s mental health urges urgent global action to tackle the health crisis. The report shows that mental health problems are now the biggest threat to young people’s health and well-being, accounting for 45% of health problems in people aged 10 to 24.
In short
- Mental health is the biggest threat to young people’s health, says Lancet report
- Only 2% of the global health budget is allocated to mental health
- Report calls for increased access to mental health services for youth worldwide
A global team of psychiatrists, psychologists and academics has published a report on the state of young people’s mental health in The Lancet.
This analysis, which includes contributions from experts on five continents, highlights the urgent need for global action to tackle the growing mental health crisis among young people.
The report, known as the Lancet Psychiatry Commission on Youth Mental Health, is the result of four years of work.
Professor Patrick McGorry, lead author and Executive Director of Orygen, emphasised that this publication is an important step towards recognising young people’s mental health as a global health priority.
Professor McGorry said: “This report is the first of its kind to provide a comprehensive overview of young people’s mental health around the world. It makes a strong case for greater investment in research, better models of care and increased access to mental health services for young people everywhere.”
The report shows that mental health problems are now the biggest threat to young people’s health and wellbeing, accounting for 45% of health problems in people aged 10 to 24.
Despite this, only 2% of the global health budget is allocated to mental health, indicating a significant gap in addressing the crisis.
What is causing the increase in mental health problems?
The commission also examined factors contributing to the rise in mental health problems among young people, including the impact of social media and climate change.
It considered the most effective ways to help young people in countries with different levels of resources.
The report’s senior author, McGill University professor Srividya Iyer, said that even in wealthy countries, only a small number of young people receive necessary mental health care.
In low-income countries, access to services is even more limited.
“The world has not invested enough in mental health, particularly for young people, who are vital to the future of our society,” Professor Iyer said.
The Commission comprised 54 authors and 10 youth commissioners. The report was led by Professor Patrick McGorry and co-edited by Professor Killacky, Iyer, Dr Christina Mei and Dr Naeem Dalal.