Epidemiology and Burden of Mental Disorders in Bangladesh

This chapter explores the epidemiology and burden of mental disorders in Bangladesh. It synthesizes the literature on the prevalence, risk factors, and impact of mental disorders in various segments of the population. The chapter reveals that mental disorders are common in Bangladesh, affecting about one-fifth of adults and one-eighth of children and adolescents. The most frequent disorders are depression and anxiety disorders. Women and urban dwellers are more vulnerable to mental illness. The COVID-19 pandemic has also worsened the mental health of young people. It discusses the legislative and strategic initiatives taken by the government and other actors to cope mental health burden. It concludes that a comprehensive understanding of the psychiatric burden and its implications in Bangladesh is still missing.