Recession linked to surge in depression

The recession has caused a surge in depression, anxiety, and mental health problems resulting in family break-ups, as well as the development of unexpected physical illnesses.

These are the findings of a new study based on the views of people living through the financial crisis.

According to the eighth annual Pfizer Health Index study, which examined the experiences of 1,003 people over the age of 16 across a range of socio-economic and geographical categories, 90% of respondents believe the recession is causing havoc to people’s mental health.

Financial issues and difficulties in finding work are top of the concerns, while one in three of those surveyed said the problems are leading to other physical illnesses and family break-ups.

Claire Hayes, clinical director of depression support group Aware, said the findings are deeply worrying but insisted help is available.

“I would urge anybody experiencing anxiety as a result of financial difficulties, job loss, or indeed any kind of stress, to talk to someone who can help, be that a health professional or a support organisation such as Aware,” said Dr Hayes.

“Financial difficulties can seem overwhelming and it is important to access support for both strands — the mental health impact and also the financial issues themselves.

“Many agencies, including Aware provide free, accessible supports including programmes based on cognitive behavioural therapy that can encourage people to focus on helpful actions they can take in order to make a difference to their situation.”

Her call was supported by former Kilkenny hurler DJ Carey, who said the stress of his recent business problems created serious health issues.

“Despite being physically healthy for years, I experienced some health scares of my own last year and no doubt the stress and pressure I was under at the time contributed to them,” he said.

“Thankfully I was treated successfully for both conditions and I’m feeling great today, but I can’t emphasise enough how important it is to look after your health and in particular your mental health.”

While the research was conducted by Pfizer — a major drug company whose products include anti-depressant medications — the annual health index study has gained credibility for acting as a snapshot of the country’s well-being since it was launched in 2005.

Among the other key findings of the latest study are that the number of people with health insurance has fallen from 44% in 2010 to just 34% today and that medical card rates have fallen back to 2011 levels.

Details revealed in previous health index research include the fact one in four people reaching retirement age do not have enough money to live a high quality of life, half of people from poor areas have a health condition, and that there has been a surge in patients declining to seek help because of the costs involved.

* Aware: 1890 303 302 or log on to www.aware.ie.