A new report analyzing a 2019 European Health Interview Survey has found that depression rates vary significantly across Europe, with France’s older adults showing particularly high levels of the condition. According to the report, pre-pandemic, France had the highest depression rate among European countries at around 11%, exceeding other nations.
The analysis focused on data from over 300,000 people in four regions: the European Union, Norway, Iceland, and Serbia. It found that northern and western European countries have higher depression levels than southern and eastern European countries. Older individuals in these countries were also more likely to experience depression, with rates of over 15% in Portugal, Romania, and Croatia.
Factors contributing to this disparity include poor health among older Europeans, particularly those living in eastern and southern Europe. The report noted that nearly 40% of seniors in certain countries report poor health, leading to higher depression rates. Social isolation and being widowed were also linked to increased depression among older adults.
In contrast, younger Europeans in western European countries showed the highest rates of depression, which was often linked to social isolation, lack of professional activity or education, and income level. The report suggests that social media can also exacerbate these issues by promoting harmful comparisons and cyber-harassment.
The findings highlight a growing mental health crisis in Europe since the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly among young people in France and other countries. Experts believe that investing in psychiatry and therapeutic innovation is crucial to addressing this issue.
Source: https://www.euronews.com/health/2025/01/20/blockbuster-weight-loss-drugs-linked-to-lower-risk-of-addiction-schizophrenia-dementia-and