Nearly 1 billion people live with a mental health condition.
But mental health remains one of the most neglected aspects of healthcare. Some countries have only two mental health workers for every 100,000 people. The social and economic repercussions are profound. Anxiety and depression alone cost the global economy an estimated $1 trillion per year.
We must strengthen the capacity of health services to offer quality care to those in need, in particular young people. This includes community-based services and integrating support for mental health into broader health and social care.
Investing in mental wellbeing means investing in healthy and prosperous communities. We must also address stigma and discrimination — and break down the barriers that prevent people from seeking care and support.
And we must prevent the root causes of mental health conditions, including violence and abuse. The United Nations is committed to working with partners to promote mental wellbeing.
***
United Nations Secretary General António Guterres' message for World Mental Health Day observed last 10 October.
