Data Analytics Reveals Mental Health Treatment Disparities

February 18, 2022 - A combined data analysis of results from 149 studies indicated that treatment rates for major depressive disorder remain low worldwide, particularly for those living in low-and lower-middle-income countries.

Alize Ferrari of the University of Queensland, Australia, Modhurima Moitra of the University of Washington, U.S., and colleagues presented these findings in PLOS Medicine.

In recent years, national and global initiatives have emphasized the importance of treating major depressive disorder. However, treatment rates remain low.

According to researchers, analyses that combine results from studies on depressive treatment from different regions can assist in identifying opportunities for improvement. However, many analyses do not adequately account for variations in study methods, making results difficult to compare.

Allowing for further clarity, the research team conducted an updated data analysis of 149 studies on treatment for major depressive disorder conducted in 84 countries between 2000 and 2021. Applying the statistical method known as Bayesian meta-regression analysis, the team combined the studies to examine treatment rates worldwide.

Their findings suggested that treatment rates remain low worldwide while highlighting disparities in treatment between countries with different healthcare resource accessibility levels. According to the data analytics, the use of mental health services by those with major depressive disorder is estimated to be 33 percent in high-income countries and 8 percent in low and lower-middle-income countries. 

Further, “rates of treatment considered to be minimally sufficient for treating major depressive disorder are lower, estimated at 23 percent for high-income countries and 3 percent in low and lower-middle-income countries,” the press release stated.

The team noted that further research would be necessary to address health gaps among low and lower-middle-income countries and improve treatment access.

According to the researchers, their findings could help inform efforts by government and policymakers to address depression and mental health treatment worldwide effectively.

“Treatment coverage for major depressive disorder continues to be low globally, with many individuals failing to receive a level of care consistent with practice guideline recommendations. This highlights the need to reconsider the availability of appropriate care and facilitators of treatment as we respond to the large burden imposed by this disorder,” Ferrari said in the press release.