Page 3 - Index

THE SIZE OF THE PROBLEM
Mental health is a world-wide issue. The World
Health Organisation suggests that 280 million people
are affected by depression, 40 million by bipolar
affective disorder and 24 million by schizophrenia1
.
In the UK, mental health problems are the largest single source of disability2,3. One assessment
concluded that three quarters of people with mental health problems received no support at
all3, despite mental illness accounting for nearly half of all ill health in people under 654
.
20% of older people living in the community and 40% of care home residents are affected
by depression3 and one in four UK adults experiences a diagnosable mental health problem
in any given year3. 70 million working days are lost annually due to mental health problems5
and the Centre for Mental Health has suggested that the cost to the economy in England
alone equates to over £105 billion6
.
The consequences of poor mental health are considerable and not always obvious. Physical
and mental health are closely linked and those individuals with severe and prolonged mental
illness are at risk of dying on average 15 to 20 years earlier than other people3. Healthcare
costs for those with co-existing mental health problems and long-term conditions are
around 50% higher than the general population7
.
IN THE UK
75%
RECEIVED
NO SUPPORT
DESPITE
NEARLY
50%
OF ALL ILL HEALTH
BEING MENTAL
ILLNESS
1