How many people suffer from anxiety
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Prevalence of Anxiety Disorders: A Global Perspective
Anxiety Disorders Prevalence During COVID-19 Pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted mental health worldwide, with a notable increase in anxiety levels among the general population. A systematic review encompassing 103 studies and 140,732 individuals revealed that the prevalence of anxiety during the pandemic was 27.3% among the general population and 39.6% among COVID-19 patients. The prevalence was notably higher among females and older adults. Geographically, Europe had the highest anxiety prevalence at 54.6%, followed by America at 31.5%, and Asia at 28.3%. In the general population, Africa exhibited the highest prevalence at 61.8%, followed by America at 34.9%, Europe at 30.7%, and Asia at 24.5% .
Lifetime and Annual Prevalence of Anxiety Disorders
Anxiety disorders are among the most common mental health issues globally. In the United States, approximately 20% of the population will experience an anxiety disorder at some point in their lives, with an annual prevalence of over 20% . Similarly, large-scale studies indicate that up to 33.7% of the population may be affected by an anxiety disorder during their lifetime . These disorders are chronic and can significantly impair daily functioning and quality of life.
Global Burden and Societal Costs
Globally, anxiety disorders affect about 1/8th of the total population, translating to significant societal and economic burdens. In the United States alone, anxiety disorders impact 19.1 million adults annually, costing the economy over $42 billion each year . The high prevalence and chronic nature of these disorders contribute to substantial healthcare costs, including psychiatric and non-psychiatric care, emergency services, and lost productivity .
Anxiety Disorders in Specific Populations
The prevalence of anxiety disorders varies across different age groups and regions. For instance, studies focusing on individuals over 65 years old show a prevalence range between 0.1% and 17.2%, with some studies suggesting an annual prevalence rate of 20.8% when using representative samples and appropriate diagnostic tools . This indicates that older adults may be underrepresented in general prevalence studies, highlighting the need for targeted mental health assessments in this demographic.
Conclusion
Anxiety disorders are a pervasive and significant public health issue affecting millions of people worldwide. The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated anxiety levels, particularly among vulnerable populations such as females, older adults, and those infected with the virus. Understanding the prevalence and impact of anxiety disorders is crucial for developing effective mental health interventions and reducing the global burden of these conditions.
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