Global Mental Health Crisis Deepens as Over 1.1 Billion Affected Worldwide

Amid intensifying social and economic pressures, mental health has emerged as a major global public health concern. The World Health Organisation estimates that more than 1.1 billion people worldwide are living with mental health conditions. Counselling utilisation rates continue to rise, while the global mental health treatment market is experiencing rapid growth.

BOSTON, MA (MERXWIRE) – The accelerating pace of daily life, extended working hours, financial strain, and social media–driven comparison anxiety have significantly heightened mental health concerns. According to the latest estimates from the World Health Organisation (WHO), more than 1.1 billion people globally are currently living with various mental health conditions.

In the United States, a trend report released in early 2025 by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicates that the proportion of adults who received mental health treatment or counseling in the past year has increased markedly—from approximately 20% before the pandemic to over 25%—suggesting that psychological counseling has shifted from a specialized service to an increasingly routine component of healthcare.

Rising demand is also reflected in behavioural trends. The American Psychological Association (APA) reports that in 2025, younger populations are more likely to view therapy as a regular form of self-care rather than a last resort during a crisis. Tracking research by the Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF) further shows particularly sharp increases in utilisation among women and Generation Z. However, the surge in demand has strained service capacity, with many universities and healthcare institutions reporting fully booked schedules and extended waiting periods.

As mental health challenges gain greater visibility, the related industry has expanded rapidly. In 2025, the global mental health and therapy market surpassed USD 60 billion. Online counselling platforms have continued to proliferate, enabling individuals to consult licensed professionals via smartphones and other digital devices, thereby reducing time and geographic barriers. The widespread adoption of digital services has encouraged individuals who previously hesitated due to transportation constraints, fragmented schedules, or social stigma to seek professional support.

In response to escalating demand, governments worldwide have introduced more concrete policy measures. In the second half of 2024, Taiwan expanded its “Mental Health Support Program for Young and Middle-Aged Adults Aged 15 to 45,” offering up to three free counselling sessions per eligible individual to lower financial barriers and promote early intervention. In the United Kingdom, the National Health Service (NHS) strengthened referral pathways through general practitioners, enabling faster access to evidence-based talking therapies. Australia continues to subsidise psychological consultation fees through its national health insurance system, while in Asia, Japan and South Korea have expanded community mental health centres to build more comprehensive early assessment networks.

Beyond expanding treatment capacity, prevention and everyday support have become central policy priorities in 2025. Many countries now actively promote regular physical activity and social engagement, as research consistently demonstrates that stable exercise habits contribute to reducing the risk of anxiety and depression. From free counselling subsidies and digital platforms to community-based support centres and exercise initiatives, governments worldwide are adopting diverse strategies to address the growing wave of psychological stress. As mental health becomes a core component of public policy, the overarching objective is to ensure that those in need can access support earlier and more easily.