A recent study from the University of Manitoba reveals that mood and anxiety disorders are affecting over 28 percent of Manitobans aged 15 and older. This marks a five percent increase compared to two decades ago, with anxiety and depression being the most common conditions.
The report, covering data from 2022-2023, found approximately 28% of the population experienced a mood or anxiety disorder. Around 20% received care for anxiety, and 16% sought treatment for depression. Substance abuse disorders, particularly related to alcohol, were also analyzed.
Lindsey Dahl, an epidemiologist with the Manitoba Centre for Health Policy, noted a steady increase in identified cases over the past 20 years. The study also examined healthcare delivery, noting 28,539 emergency department visits for mental health and substance use disorders by 14,501 individuals. Most Manitobans seek treatment locally, though some travel for care. Approximately 22,000 individuals visited psychiatrists for these issues.
Dahl suggested increased access to services and a potential decrease in social stigma as factors contributing to the rise in reported cases, emphasizing that the report focuses on healthcare service utilization.
