“One billion people suffer from mental disorders such as anxiety and depression,” according to a World Health Organization report issued in 2025, which pointed to the enormous human and economic losses caused by these conditions.
These mental disorders are the second leading cause of long-term disability, and contribute significantly to reducing the ability to enjoy a healthy life.
The most common mental illnesses in 2025
The World Health Organization report agrees with what psychotherapist Dr. Nicole Hani told Al-Mashhad that “anxiety is one of the most widespread mental disorders in the world and includes general anxiety, panic, social fear, and affects millions of people around the world.”
Hani pointed out that depression, along with anxiety, constitutes the largest part of mental health cases.
She also added that “psychological burnout and chronic stress are common and are related to the increasing economic, social and work pressures, and their impact is clear, especially among young people.”
According to the World Health Organization, suicide remains one of the tragic consequences of these disorders, claiming the lives of an estimated 727,000 people in 2021 alone.
Causes of mental disorders
The causes of mental disorders, especially anxiety and depression, vary.
According to Hani, they include:
- Psychological factors: such as the pressures of studying, work, psychological trauma, loss of a loved one, and low self-esteem.
- Social factors: including family problems, family disintegration, social isolation, and lack of support from friends.
- Biological factors: such as heredity, brain imbalances, and sleep disorders.
- School and professional factors: such as academic pressure, fear of failure, and fear of not belonging.
- Other factors: such as an unhealthy lifestyle, irregular sleep, an unhealthy diet, lack of exercise, excessive use of screens, and lack of communication.
The most affected age groups
Young people and adolescents are considered the most vulnerable to infection, especially with depression and anxiety, as Hani explained that the age group between 16 and 25 years is the most affected.
She pointed to an increase in cases in younger age groups due to educational pressures, the impact of social media, and economic instability.
She also drew attention to the great impact of social media on the “health” of this group.
Treating mental problems in 2026
To avoid exacerbating these mental illnesses in 2026, Hani called for simple steps to be taken, including:
- Regular sleep
- Physical activity
- Walking reduces anxiety
- Meditation
- Avoiding isolation
- Learning to say “no” without feeling guilty
- Setting realistic goals
- Consulting a mental health professional.
Can mental problems be treated on their own?
It is certain that psychotherapists will oppose the idea of a person treating himself or relying on the Internet.
Hani mentioned that denying the existence of the problem often represents a major obstacle to seeking specialized help, and that relying on unreliable advice from the Internet may lead to misdiagnosis, and thus following inappropriate treatment methods.
She pointed out that trying to force positive thinking may lead to suppressing sadness and ignoring real feelings instead of addressing them.
She added: “In addition to that, there is excessive comparison with others, accompanied by digital addiction and a constant escape from confronting oneself.”
According to Hani, in many cases, the basics necessary for mental health are neglected, such as good sleep and a balanced lifestyle, which complicates the problem instead of solving it.
