WHO Warns Over 3 Billion Facing Mental Health Crisis Worldwide
Over 3 billion people around the world are struggling with mental and neurological health problems, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). The agency warned that millions die each year due to poor treatment and limited access to care. This global mental health crisis has reached alarming levels, affecting people in both rich and poor nations.
In its latest report, WHO revealed that more than 11 million deaths occur annually from these conditions. However, only 63 countries have national policies for neurological diseases, and just 34 allocate specific funding to address them. As a result, experts say the world urgently needs stronger and more coordinated action to prioritize mental health care and research.
Unequal Access to Mental Health Services
The WHO report highlighted that effective treatments exist, but millions—especially in low-income and rural regions—remain without proper care. Poverty, weak healthcare systems, and social stigma often stop people from seeking help. In addition, limited awareness means many go undiagnosed for years. Timely support could prevent countless deaths and improve millions of lives.
WHO Calls for Urgent Global Action
WHO Assistant Director-General Jeremy Farrar expressed serious concern over the findings. He stressed that more than a third of people globally are facing mental health challenges. Farrar added that underinvestment in research, infrastructure, and training continues to widen the treatment gap. In poorer countries, the number of neurologists is up to 80 times lower than in wealthier nations.
WHO urged governments to scale up services, invest in mental health programs, and make mental wellness a top global priority.
