Mind Matters

By: Sidra Gebirrebbi

The Societal Impact of Mood Disorders

Mood disorders, including depression and bipolar disorder, have a profound impact on society, affecting children, teens, and adults in various ways. In recent years, the prevalence of these disorders has risen, intensified by social, economic, and technological factors. The increasing awareness of mental health has led to improved recognition and diagnosis, yet stigma and systemic barriers still prevent many from receiving adequate care. One major societal impact is the effect on education and work productivity. Among youth, mood disorders contribute to declining academic performance, increased absenteeism, and higher dropout rates. Many students struggle with concentration, motivation, and self-esteem, which can have long-term consequences on their future opportunities. For working adults, mood disorders lead to decreased job performance, higher rates of unemployment, and significant economic costs. According to the National Institutes of Health, depression and anxiety disorders cost the global economy an estimated $1 trillion annually due to lost productivity. Mood disorders also strain healthcare systems. The demand for mental health services has surged, yet access to care remains uneven. Many communities, particularly marginalized ones, face shortages of mental health professionals, long wait times, and high costs. This lack of access can lead to self-medication, substance abuse, or worsening mental health conditions. Additionally, mood disorders contribute to rising suicide rates, especially among teens and young adults. Social media plays a complex role in this crisis, both by fostering a sense of connection and exacerbating feelings of inadequacy, loneliness, and cyberbullying. The glorification of unrealistic lifestyles can deepen feelings of worthlessness, making it harder for individuals with mood disorders to cope. Despite these challenges, there have been positive shifts. Conversations about mental health are becoming more open, with schools, workplaces, and governments recognizing the need for mental health initiatives. Campaigns advocating for mental wellness, therapy access, and destigmatization efforts have made it easier for people to seek help. However, more work is needed to ensure that support systems are accessible and effective for all.

My Personal Connection

While I do not have a diagnosed mood disorder, I have witnessed and experienced some of the struggles associated with mental health challenges. The pressures of academic life, social expectations, and personal aspirations can sometimes lead to feelings of stress, anxiety, and emotional exhaustion. Balancing school, extracurriculars, and future career goals while maintaining a social life can feel overwhelming. Beyond my own experiences, I have people around me who struggle with mood disorders, and I have seen how difficult it is for them to access the support they need. There is a clear disconnect between recognizing the impact of these disorders and actually providing the resources to help people manage them. It is frustrating to see news reports about mental illness being a leading factor in so many incidents, yet little is being done to make treatment more accessible. According to BrainsWay, over 50 percent of individuals will experience a mental disorder in their lifetime, but only 16.5 percent of people with depression seek help. If such a large percentage of the population will deal with this at some point, then there needs to be a serious effort to improve access to treatment and resources. As someone interested in psychology, law, and advocacy, I recognize the importance of mental health in broader social justice issues. Many marginalized communities, including my own: Black and Muslim populations, face additional barriers to mental health care due to discrimination, cultural stigmas, and financial constraints. Addressing these issues requires not only personal awareness but also systemic change. In conclusion, mood disorders have widespread effects on individuals and society. While progress is being made in awareness and treatment, the challenges remain significant. Personally, I connect to this issue through my academic pressures, observations of friends' struggles, and my passion for mental health advocacy. Continuing to normalize discussions about mental health and expanding access to resources are essential steps toward creating a more supportive society.