Pandemic and mental health: global data

COVID-19 increased the prevalence of depression by 25% and anxiety by 26% according to WHO (Lancet, 2021). Online psychotherapy showed effectiveness comparable to in-person formats.

An analysis published in The Lancet estimated that the COVID-19 pandemic caused 53 million additional cases of major depression and 76 million additional cases of anxiety disorders worldwide during 2020.

Women and young people were the most affected groups. Mobility restrictions, social isolation, economic uncertainty, and bereavement contributed to an unprecedented deterioration of global mental health.

The pandemic accelerated the transition to online psychotherapy. Studies demonstrated that CBT via videoconference was as effective as in-person therapy for depression and anxiety, with similar adherence rates.

Long-term consequences include sustained increases in demand for mental health services, normalization of online therapy, and greater public awareness of the importance of mental health.

Significance: This is one of the most significant developments in the psychology of our time. Its repercussions continue to be felt years later and have fundamentally changed how we understand the human mind and clinical practice.