What is driving the alarming rise in depression rates across the globe? As one navigates an increasingly complex world marked by economic uncertainty, political unrest, and social isolation, mental health challenges have become more pronounced. Factors such as the COVID-19 pandemic, rising income inequality, and the pervasive influence of social media have all contributed to increased feelings of anxiety and despair. Over the years, mental health awareness has improved, yet stigma still prevents many from seeking help. Here is the list of the 10 countries that have the highest rate of depression.

List of 10 Countries With Highest Depression Rate

1. Ukraine
2. United States
3. Australia
4. Estonia
5. Brazil
6. Portugal
7. Greece
8. Belarus
9. Finland
10. Lithuania

1) Ukraine

6.3% of Ukrainians suffer from depression in 2024, making it one of the highest rates of illness in the world. Numerous critical problems that the nation has experienced have contributed to the pervasive mental health issues. With its start in 2014 and its escalation in 2022, the war with Russia has had a severe impact on the people of Ukraine. Economic instability, the loss of loved ones, and mass displacement brought on by the conflict are all significant stressors that have been related to mental health issues including depression.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has reported that the war has put a great deal of strain on Ukraine’s healthcare system, making it challenging for people to get mental health assistance. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression have become more prevalent due to the constant threat of violence and uncertainty about the future. Also, many Ukrainians are grappling with financial hardships, further contributing to the country’s high depression rate.

The stigma surrounding mental health in Ukraine also prevents many from seeking help, leading to unreported cases and untreated conditions. Without adequate support and intervention, these issues are likely to persist, affecting a large portion of Ukraine’s population.

2) United States

The United States has a 5.9% depression rate in 2024, which reflects the difficulties millions of Americans have with their mental health. This high prevalence is caused by several variables, such as social isolation, economic inequality, and the mounting demands of modern living. Growing income inequality in the nation is a significant factor, stressing many families’ finances. Roughly 11.5% of Americans, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, are poor, which can result in long-term stress and sadness.

The ubiquitous impact of social media, which has been associated in studies with increased rates of anxiety and depression, particularly among teens and young adults, is another important cause. Feelings of loneliness and inadequacy can result from constant comparison and the pressure to exhibit a “perfect” existence on the internet.

Furthermore, the COVID-19 pandemic continues to impact mental health, even years after its peak. The CDC has reported a sustained increase in depression and anxiety levels due to job loss, long-term health issues, and the loss of loved ones. Also, the opioid crisis in the U.S. contributes to a cycle of addiction and depression, with over 100,000 overdose deaths annually exacerbating the mental health crisis. All these factors make the U.S. one of the countries with the highest depression rates.

3) Australia

Australia has a 5.9% depression rate in 2024, indicating serious mental health issues throughout the nation. This high rate is caused by several variables, such as the long-lasting effects of natural disasters, financial stress, and social isolation. Long-term impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on mental health include employment uncertainty, income reduction, and the difficulties of living in remote areas for many Australians. Around 13.4% of Australians, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, are poor, which increases stress and worry and frequently results in depression.

Another major factor has been the nation’s regular exposure to extreme weather disasters, like destructive floods and bushfires. Communities struggle to rebuild after these disasters, leaving emotional wounds in addition to the destruction of homes and livelihoods. A 2023 study found that individuals affected by bushfires were at higher risk of developing depression and anxiety.

Social isolation is another contributing factor, especially in rural and remote areas where access to mental health services is limited. The stigma surrounding mental illness further discourages people from seeking help, leaving many cases of depression untreated. Despite government initiatives to improve mental health services, the combination of economic, social, and environmental factors continues to drive Australia’s high depression rate.

4) Estonia

With a 5.9% depression rate in 2024, Estonia is a small Baltic country with serious mental health issues. The high rate of depression in the nation is caused by several variables, such as social isolation, economic disparity, and the persistent stigma associated with mental health. Estonia has had fast economic progress and technological advancement, yet there is still a gap between the country’s urban and rural parts. Economic prospects are scarce in rural areas, which causes financial stress and uncertainty, two factors that are known to be precursors to depression.

The incidence of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a form of depression brought on by less sunlight throughout the winter, is further increased by Estonia’s protracted, severe winters. With the country experiencing up to 18 hours of darkness during winter, many Estonians face mood changes, fatigue, and depressive symptoms during this period.

Furthermore, while Estonia has made strides in improving mental health care, there is still a strong cultural stigma attached to seeking psychological help. Many individuals choose to suffer in silence rather than reach out for professional support, worsening the mental health crisis. In response, Estonia’s government has launched campaigns to raise awareness and improve access to mental health services, but more effort is needed to address the underlying causes of its high depression rate.

5) Brazil

Brazil’s 5.8% depression rate in 2024 reflects the nation’s pervasive mental health issues. This high rate is caused by several environmental and socioeconomic variables. There is a large disparity in income in Brazil, with about 31.6% of the population living in poverty. The increasing rates of depression are a result of chronic stress, insecurity, and limited access to basic services, such as mental health treatment, caused by this economic gap.

In many sections of Brazil, particularly in urban areas, there are also widespread problems with crime and violence. The psychological toll that violence and the dread of becoming a victim take daily is enormous. According to studies, those who reside in high-crime areas are more prone to suffer from depression.

Also, Brazil’s environmental challenges, such as deforestation and pollution, contribute to the overall mental health crisis. The devastation of natural environments affects both the livelihoods of local communities and the emotional well-being of the population, as environmental loss can lead to eco-anxiety and feelings of helplessness.

Although Brazil has made some progress in mental health awareness, the lack of sufficient mental health services and widespread stigma around seeking help means that many cases of depression remain untreated.

6) Portugal

Portugal will have a 5.7% depression rate in 2024, primarily due to social, cultural, and economic issues. Portugal’s economy has improved, but the country still faces severe unemployment, especially among young people. Recent research indicates that 16% of youth do not have a job, and this financial instability plays a major role in the mental health issue. Many people experience underemployment or long-term unemployment, which raises their risk of depression and causes stress and low self-esteem.

The aging population of Portugal is another factor raising the country’s depression rate. The proportion of old people in the nation is among the greatest in all of Europe, and many of them struggle with isolation, loneliness, and deteriorating health. These issues often lead to depression among older adults, especially those who lack family support or live in rural areas with limited access to healthcare services.

Culturally, Portugal has a strong stigma surrounding mental health, which prevents many people from seeking help. Though the country has made strides in increasing mental health awareness, mental health services remain underfunded and overstretched, with long waiting lists for therapy or psychiatric care. Also, the ongoing economic challenges and cultural attitudes toward mental illness contribute to Portugal’s high depression rate, leaving many cases untreated.

7) Greece

Greece’s 5.7% depression rate in 2024 was a reflection of the continued difficulties many Greeks experience with their mental health. The protracted economic crisis that started in 2009 is one of the main causes of this high rate. Greece’s economy has improved recently, but the consequences of harsh austerity policies, high unemployment rates, particularly for young people, and pay reductions are still felt. Greece’s youth unemployment rate, according to reports, is still at 25%, which puts young individuals under constant stress and uncertainty about their financial futures which is a proven risk factor for depression.

The inflow of migrants and refugees has worsened Greece’s mental health issues because many of the former are living in substandard conditions and have experienced serious psychological trauma. This has strained Greece’s healthcare system, which is already under-resourced due to austerity cuts. As a result, mental health services are not always readily available or accessible to those in need, leaving many cases of depression untreated.

Also, the cultural stigma surrounding mental illness in Greece discourages many from seeking professional help. Though efforts to raise awareness are growing, the social and economic pressures, coupled with the underfunded healthcare system, continue to contribute to Greece’s high depression rate in 2024.

8) Belarus

In 2024, Belarus has a 5.6% depression rate, which is the result of a complex interplay between social, political, and economic forces. The nation has seen decades of authoritarian governance, resulting in pervasive political persecution and restricted personal liberties. Belarus’s mental health crisis is exacerbated by ongoing pressure, limited civil liberties, and fear of government punishment. Many citizens have sentiments of pessimism and melancholy as a result of their uncertain future.

Belarus’s economy has suffered from excessive inflation, economic stagnation, and little prospects for upward mobility. Younger generations are especially hard hit by these financial issues because many of them have difficulty finding steady employment. Financial insecurity is a known trigger for depression, as individuals find it hard to meet their basic needs and plan for the future.

Moreover, Belarus has a high rate of alcohol consumption, which is often linked to depression. Excessive drinking, common in many Eastern European countries, is frequently used as a coping mechanism for stress and emotional pain, but it ultimately worsens mental health conditions like depression.

Despite these challenges, mental health resources remain limited in Belarus, and the cultural stigma surrounding mental illness discourages people from seeking help, leaving many individuals without proper care or treatment.

9) Finland

Finland has a 5.6% depression rate in 2024, while consistently ranking among the happiest nations in the world. Finland has a high depression rate due to several particular variables, the longest, darkest winters being one of them. In Finland, wintertime darkness can last up to 19 hours, which contributes to a high incidence of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a type of depression brought on by insufficient sunlight. Studies on health in Finland indicate that about 9.5% of people suffer from SAD, which has a major negative effect on mental health throughout the winter.

Also, social isolation is a growing concern. Although Finland is known for its high standard of living and strong social welfare system, many Finns, particularly the elderly, face loneliness. The Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare reports that 20% of people over the age of 75 live in solitude, contributing to depression among older adults.

The cultural tendency towards self-reliance and the stigma surrounding mental illness also prevent many from seeking help. While Finland has a robust healthcare system, the demand for mental health services often exceeds supply, leading to long waiting times for therapy and psychiatric care. These combined factors drive Finland’s relatively high depression rate despite its otherwise high quality of life.

10) Lithuania

Lithuania’s 5.6% depression rate in 2024 highlights the nation’s mental health issues. This high rate is caused by several important variables, such as past political instability, social isolation, and economic difficulties. Even though Lithuania’s economy has expanded since entering the EU, income inequality is still a major problem. Financial hardship affects a large number of Lithuanians, particularly those living in rural areas, which exacerbates feelings of fear and insecurity. The World Bank estimates that 20% of people live in poverty, which fosters an environment that is conducive to depression.

The country’s long, harsh winters are another significant factor. With limited daylight during winter months, many Lithuanians suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a form of depression linked to lack of sunlight. The dark and cold climate can lead to mood disturbances and exacerbate pre-existing mental health conditions.

Social isolation, particularly among older adults, is also a major issue. A report by the Lithuanian Department of Statistics highlights that a growing number of elderly people live alone, which is often associated with loneliness and depression. Also, while the government has improved mental health services, there is still a strong stigma attached to seeking help, meaning many individuals do not receive the support they need.

Conclusion

Addressing high depression rates in the most affected countries requires a multifaceted approach. Governments must prioritize mental health by increasing funding for mental health services and integrating them into primary healthcare. Educational campaigns can help reduce stigma, encouraging individuals to seek help. Fostering community connections and support networks can combat social isolation. By creating supportive environments, enhancing access to care, and promoting mental health awareness, the countries with the highest depression rates can work toward significantly reducing them.

FAQs

Where Is the Highest Rate of Depression in the World?

As of 2024, Ukraine has one of the highest rates of depression globally, with a prevalence of 6.3%. The ongoing conflict and political instability have exacerbated mental health issues among the population. This situation highlights the urgent need for mental health support and resources in the region.

What Country Has the Lowest Rate of Depression?

The Solomon Islands has the lowest reported rate of depression, with a prevalence of 2.9% in 2024. The close-knit communities and strong cultural ties in the islands may contribute to lower mental health issues. 

What Country Has the Highest Rate of Mental Illness?

The United States has one of the highest rates of mental illness, with around 20% of adults experiencing some form of mental health disorder annually. Factors such as stress, economic pressures, and limited access to mental health care contribute to this high prevalence.