In England there is a rise in common mental disorders, particularly among those aged 16 to 24, according to the 2023/24 Adult Psychiatric Morbidity Survey. This survey, conducted by NHS England, is the fifth and longest-running of its kind in the country. The results show a troubling trend: nearly 20% of adults now qualify for a diagnosis of depression or anxiety. Additionally, growing socioeconomic disparities related to debt, unemployment, and limited access to healthcare are worsening the situation.
The numbers are quite telling, you know. Overall, in 2023-24, 22.6% of adults aged 16 to 64 had a common mental health condition, a noticeable jump from 17.6% in 2007. Sally McManus, a Professor involved in the survey, even mentioned that now one in five adults deals with depression or anxiety, up from one in six a decade ago. But the real kicker is that for the younger crowd one in four (that’s 25.8%) of 16 to 24 year-olds had a common mental health condition. This age group was also more likely than any other to report self-harm or screen positive for PTSD and ADHD. It really highlights how much young people are struggling.
It’s genuinely startling to see the statistics on self-harm. The rate has nearly tripled in recent years, jumping from 3.8% in 2007 to over 10% now. One expert, Professor McManus, points to an even starker reality for adults overall—a four-fold increase since 2000. This is a staggering and deeply concerning trend.
The data also consistently reveals that women report higher rates of mental health conditions than men, a persistent and saddening pattern.
Another crucial point is the undeniable link between physical and mental well-being. Having a limiting physical condition significantly increases the likelihood of experiencing mental health disorders, self-harm, or symptoms of PTSD. It’s a powerful reminder of how interconnected our physical and mental states are.
The survey states that adults in the most disadvantaged areas, or those burdened by significant debt, are far more likely to face these challenges. Unemployment shows a similarly high prevalence which is a clear picture of how financial instability impacts one mental health.
Finally, the findings on ethnic inequality are deeply troubling. Individuals from mixed or multiple ethnic backgrounds appear to face some of the most severe outcomes, with higher rates of PTSD and self-harm. Compounding this, Black and Asian individuals were found to be less likely to seek treatment, even when showing symptoms. This suggests a critical gap where people are suffering without the necessary support.
On the other hand access to mental health treatment has improved half 47.7% of adults with symptoms aged 16 to 74 reported getting treatment, a significant rise from 24.4% in 2007. Psychological therapies are up to 17.9%, and medication use nearly doubled to 38.4%. Nonetheless, Professor Terry Brugha of the University of Leicester point of an important observation: despite the increased availability of treatments since 1993, the number of individuals impacted remains unchanged. He suggests that England should invest in mental health programs like Australia and the Netherlands. It is important to understand who develops disorders and who gets support. This knowledge is key to addressing these issues. He also noted that the stigma around mental health has lessened. This change helps people realize they can and should seek help.
Sarah Morris from the National Centre for Social Research appreciate the “tremendous collaborative effort” behind this important research.
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