The Prevalence Of Treated And Untreated Mental Disorders In Five Countries

TLDR

Outreach is needed to reduce barriers to care for serious cases and at‑risk young people. The study analyzed survey data from five countries to examine the prevalence and treatment of mental and substance abuse disorders. The authors used cross‑national survey data to assess prevalence and treatment patterns of these disorders. Prevalence ranged from 17 % in Chile to 29 % in the U.S.; most cases were mild, and although treatment increases with severity, 33–66 % of serious cases received no care, especially among young, poorly educated males.

Abstract

We analyzed survey data from Canada, Chile, Germany, the Netherlands, and the United States to study the prevalence and treatment of mental and substance abuse disorders. Total past-year prevalence estimates range between 17.0 percent (Chile) and 29.1 percent (U.S.). Many cases are mild. Although disorder severity is strongly related to treatment, one- to two-thirds of serious cases receive no treatment each year. Most treatment goes to minor and mild cases. Undertreatment of serious cases is most pronounced among young, poorly educated males. Outreach is needed to reduce barriers to care among serious cases and young people at risk of serious disorders.