Mental health is a topic that touches all of us at some point in our lives. Whether in our families or communities, mental health matters. Sometimes people wonder which mental health problems occur the most. When we speak about the most common mental health disorders we are talking about conditions that affect a significant portion of the global population, and it can greatly impact daily life.
The World Health Organization reported in September that, “More than 1 billion people are living with mental health disorders”. This puts it into perspective
Anxiety Disorders
Anxiety disorders are the most prevalent category of mental health conditions. These disorders involve strong feelings of fear, worry or unease that continue long after the real threat has gone or may never have even been there. Within this category we find generalized anxiety disorder or GAD, panic disorder, social anxiety disorder and phobias. Data from late 2024 shows that anxiety disorders and depression remain the most common issues seen across all ages. In 2024 for example GAD was the most common primary mental health diagnosis in one data set making up over 14% of cases followed by unspecified anxiety.
Depression and Mood Disorders
Major depression is another widespread concern and a leading cause of long-term disability worldwide. In the United States around 8% of adults experience a major depressive episode each year and approximately 19% experience an anxiety disorder. Mood disorders also include conditions such as bipolar disorder where people experience shifts between low moods and elevated moods. Broadly speaking, the combined burden of anxiety and mood disorders is immense.
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
Obsessive compulsive disorder or OCD is less common than anxiety or depression but still affects a notable number of people. Around 1% of people are affected each year and approximately 2% experience it at some point in their lives. OCD involves unwanted repetitive thoughts or urges as well as ritualized behaviors aimed at reducing anxiety. It often starts in childhood or adolescence and can persist into adulthood for many.
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and Other Related Conditions
PTSD is another significant condition that can develop after someone experiences a traumatic event like an accident, violence or disaster in their life. While it may not be as common as anxiety or depression it remains a major concern for many who have experienced trauma. It’s usually grouped with anxiety or mood disorders but deserves special attention because of the clear link with stressful life events.
Disorders in Children and Young People
Mental health disorders often begin at an early age. In the United States, data from 2022-2023 by the CDC show that in children aged 3 to 17, anxiety disorders affected around 11% of them, while behavior disorders affected around 8%, and depression about 4%. That amounts to millions of children across the country dealing with emotional or behavioral challenges. Early intervention and support are crucial in helping young people thrive.
Personality Disorders
Personality disorders refer to long lasting patterns in how people think, feel and behave. One example is borderline personality disorder or BPD. People with BPD often experience intense emotions and concerns about self-worth. Some deal with other problems such as mood, anxiety or eating disorders and sometimes substance use.
How Many People Will Face a Mental Health Disorder in Their Lifetime?
It may surprise you to learn that mental health disorders are incredibly common over the course of a lifetime. A major study by The Lancet Psychiatry, showed that about half of all people around the world will experience at least one mental health disorder by age 75. That means mental health care and understanding is something that touches almost everyone at some time.
Why Understanding You Are Suffering Matters
If you are experiencing worry or low mood, there are other people with similar experiences out there. Effective treatments exist including talking therapies, medication, support groups or combinations of these. Some services work together to provide the best treatment for people.
If you have questions or are wondering if something you are feeling might be a mental health concern, we are here to help. Our team is experienced, compassionate and committed to guiding you toward a path of healing.
*All conversations with our team are strictly confidential.
PVD Psychological Associates specialize in college mental health, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, trauma, LGBTQIA+ issues, and relationship difficulties.
We also see clients for a range of other issues.
If you would like to discuss your needs with a therapist, complete the enquiry form on our Contact page and we’ll call or email you for a confidential chat.
