Mental health is in crisis: a global problem capable of capturing the attention of policy makers, health workers, and scientists more than ever in recent years. At least 18% of the burden of disease in the world is attributable to mental disorders, associated with health, social (education, work, and justice), and economic-financial complications.
The significant epidemiological impact can be explained by the high prevalence in different age groups. The crisis disproportionately affects those on the margins of society.
As highlighted by the magazine "The Lancet", in the first two decades of life mental disorders increase the probability of self-harm, exposure to tobacco, drugs, alcohol, suicide, antisocial behavior, crimes, and dropping out of studies. Their early onset has consequences for adulthood, with high risk of premature death, unemployment, prison confinement for violence, and obesity. Mental disorders in pregnant women are associated with an increased risk of mental disorders in the baby, with perinatal depression also associated with low birth weight and preterm birth.
Most clinical problems appear before adulthood, with half of disorders starting by age 14.
There is a clear strategic disorganization on interventions for the promotion, prevention and recovery of mental health. A turning point is therefore necessary with mental health placed at the center of the political agenda aimed at combating two key elements of the current crisis: shortage of mental health professionals and inadequate investments in welfare services and research.
