Depression treatment and anxiety treatment: government investment in these treatments is paying off.
Treatment of depression and anxiety pays off.
Freeing up funds for depression treatment and anxiety returns. A study published on 13 April in the renowned journal “The Lancet Psychiatry” learns that releasing budget for treatment of psychological problems of depression and fear raising money.
Recent rumours from the ministry hint that the proposal on the table to psychotherapy refund cancelled for budgetary reasons. The published article in The Lancet contradicts this. Putting money into psychotherapy would make money.
Costs in U.S.A. due to anxiety and depression.
Annually, these psychological problems cost the United States about 1 trillion dollars. According to the WHO, governments worldwide invest far too little in mental health care. On average, they put 3% of the budget for medical care into caring for people who are struggling mentally.
Hundreds of millions of people in the world have mental problems without access to treatment. So this is not only a huge problem of basic healthcare, but also of economic and social development.
Psychological complaints rise, investment helps.
Moreover, these mental health problems are increasing day by day, in all countries. Complaints such as fear and depression increased by 50% between 1990 and 2013.
A study in 36 countries over 15 years yields spectacular results: a $150 billion investment results in increased economic activity generating $400 billion and improved mental health generating 310 billion returns.
Action is needed.
The World Bank and WHO brought together politicians, clinicians and academics to discuss the issue on 13 and 14 April last. Forerunners include Brazil, Ethiopia and South Africa.
Read more about this in depression and anxiety treatment study W.H.O..