The global incidence of mental illness has been steadily increasing, with the World Health Organization (WHO, 2017) reporting approximately a 13% rise in mental health disorders worldwide between 2007 and 2017. This growing burden has prompted intensified international efforts to improve mental health awareness, access to care, and policy responses, as reflected in initiatives such as the WHO Mental Health Atlas. Concurrently, advancements in psychiatric classification systems, particularly the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), have contributed to more precise definitions of mental disorders, helping to distinguish normal psychological functioning from clinically significant pathology. These developments underscore the importance of standardized diagnostic criteria and global cooperation in addressing the mental health crisis. This study reviews the increasing prevalence of mental illness globally and highlights the role of international frameworks in improving understanding, identification, and management of mental health conditions. It emphasizes the need for continued awareness, early intervention, and improved access to mental health services to address the growing global demand for psychological care.
J Collins (Mon,) studied this question.