A Crisis of Our Time: Exploring the Global Rise of Mental Illness Through Economics, Lived Experiences, and Expert Insights

The world is facing a silent yet devastating epidemic: the global mental health crisis. This is a world-wide emergency exacerbated by a lack of infrastructure, lack of funding, and a lack of health equity. No demographic is immune to mental health issues, with increasing rates of anxiety and depression across various populations, influenced by the pandemic and other socio-economic factors. The economic toll is equally alarming, with mental health conditions accounting for nearly $1 trillion in lost productivity each year.  A recent report titled “ A Crisis of Our Time: Exploring the Global Rise of Mental Illness Through Economics, Lived Experiences, and Expert Insights ” has been published by the Aspen Institute’s Finance Leaders Fellowship and Dalberg . Authored by Erika Karp, the Executive Director of the Finance Leaders Fellowship at the Aspen Institute, and Dr. Derek Yach, a Global Health Consultant with Global Health Strategies LLC, the report sheds light on this pressing issue, highlighting the staggering numbers and the urgent need for action.