In recent years, mental health has become a growing concern for people across the globe. In the UK, it has overtaken cancer and obesity as the top health worry, as revealed in a recent global survey. This shift reflects the rising mental health challenges caused by factors such as the COVID-19 pandemic, economic stress, and societal issues. Let’s explore why mental health is now seen as the most pressing health issue for many Britons and how this trend reflects global concerns.
Mental Health Surpasses Cancer and Obesity
According to a survey conducted by Ipsos, mental health has become the biggest health concern for 54% of people in England, Scotland, and Wales. This is a significant increase from 2018, when mental health, cancer, and obesity were equally ranked as top health issues, each mentioned by 50% of respondents. Today, fewer people in the UK view cancer (49%) and obesity (36%) as the biggest health problems, despite the rising number of cancer diagnoses.
Globally, the shift is even more striking. In 2018, only 27% of people across 31 countries saw mental health as a significant health concern. Today, that number has jumped to 45%, surpassing both cancer (38%) and obesity (26%) as the top health issues globally.
The Impact of the Pandemic and Economic Stress
Experts believe that the COVID-19 pandemic, coupled with rising economic pressures such as the cost-of-living crisis, has played a major role in the increased focus on mental health. Simon Atkinson, Ipsos’s chief knowledge officer, stated that the pandemic has had a lasting impact on public health, particularly in terms of mental well-being.
- COVID-19: The isolation, uncertainty, and health fears caused by the pandemic have significantly contributed to mental health struggles.
- Economic challenges: The cost-of-living crisis has added stress to individuals and families, further deteriorating mental health.
- Social issues: Factors like male violence against women have also increased anxiety and mental health concerns, particularly among women.
Mental Health by Demographics
The Ipsos survey revealed notable differences in how various demographic groups view mental health:
- Gender: Women are far more likely than men to see mental health as a major concern. Globally, 51% of women mentioned it as a pressing health issue, compared to 40% of men. This may be linked to the fact that women experience higher rates of mental illness and are more likely to face challenges such as poverty and violence.
- Age: Younger generations are more concerned about mental health than older individuals, who are more likely to view cancer as a major issue. This may reflect a growing awareness and openness to discussing mental health among younger people.
Rising Anxiety and Stress Levels
Another concerning finding of the survey is the rise in stress levels worldwide. In the UK, 17% of people now cite stress as a major health issue, up from 12% in 2018. Globally, the number has risen from 25% to 31%. The increased stress is likely due to ongoing challenges related to the pandemic, economic struggles, and societal pressures.
Andy Bell, the chief executive of the Centre for Mental Health think tank, pointed out that mental health in the UK has been declining for over a decade. More people are being referred to mental health services, and there are currently over a million people on waiting lists for NHS mental health care in England.
Why Cancer and Obesity Are Lower Priorities
Interestingly, while mental health concerns have risen, the proportion of people who see cancer and obesity as major health issues has decreased both in the UK and globally. This shift may be due to advancements in cancer treatment and a sense of growing confidence in survival rates. Naser Turabi, the director of evidence and implementation at Cancer Research UK, highlighted that cancer survival rates in the UK have doubled in the last 50 years. New treatments such as immunotherapy and advanced radiotherapy have given people more hope, which may explain why fewer people now prioritize cancer as their top health worry.
Conclusion: A Growing Focus on Mental Health
The rise of mental health as the most significant health concern reflects broader societal changes and challenges. The COVID-19 pandemic, economic pressures, and social issues have brought mental health to the forefront of public consciousness. The increased awareness and openness about mental health are positive steps, but they also highlight the urgent need for better mental health services and support.
As mental health continues to dominate public health concerns, it’s crucial for governments and health organizations to prioritize mental well-being, provide better access to care, and address the root causes of mental illness. The shift in public perception marks a turning point in how we view and address health issues, with mental health now taking center stage.