Depression is costing the global economy a ‘profound’ $1 trillion per year, warns U.S. Surgeon General – By Alexa Mikhail (Fortune) / Dec 4, 2023
As health officials continue to sound the alarm on the growing loneliness epidemic, U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy says the prevalence of depression is closely linked. Loneliness and social isolation increase the risk for mental health problems, including depression. About 280 million people—or 5% of adults globally—have depression, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). It’s a common mental health disorder that negatively affects sleep, appetite, decision making, focus, time management, and social connections.
“The impact on the global economy of depression alone is around one trillion dollars each year. That’s profound,” U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy tells Fortune. “That doesn’t count for anxiety and the other physical illnesses that we encounter when it comes to loneliness and isolation.”
Increasing rates of loneliness and poor mental health, therefore, are why Murthy outlined an advisory highlighting ways workplaces can support their employees’ mental health. Murthy says workplaces thrive when high importance is placed on fostering a supportive, inclusive environment that can combat rather than catalyze loneliness and mental health problems like depression. And strong well-being at work can improve employee satisfaction and engagement. In a survey conducted by Ipsos last year, 88% of U.S workers surveyed said feeling like they belong boosted their productivity.
