Study: Mental disorders are leading cause of disability worldwide

ANBAR, Iraq — A new study says mental disorders have become the leading cause of disability worldwide. The research estimated that about 1.2 billion people are living with at least one mental disorder, nearly twice the number recorded in the early 1990s. The study examined data from 204 countries and found a marked rise in depression and anxiety disorders since 2019. Severe depression cases increased by 24 percent, while anxiety disorders rose by more than 47 percent. Researchers said young people, especially those aged 15-19, were among the groups most affected by the psychological burden. The study also said women experience mental disorders more often than men. It said mental health problems can seriously affect work, learning, sleep, concentration and social relationships.