Nearly one-fifth of Sri Lankans suffer from depression: Study

Report stresses the need for urgent improvement in youth mental health services 

By Huzefa Aliasger 

Depression in Sri Lanka is alarmingly high, with nearly one-fifth or 19.4 per cent of the total Sri Lankan population suffering from it. In a comparison with other Asian countries, the prevalence of depression in Sri Lanka is notably higher, with only 16.1 per cent of Asians experiencing this mental health condition, according to a joint study by the University of Peradeniya and the University of Kelaniya. 

The study conducted by a team of researchers in 2023 has shown that an astonishing 39 per cent of young Sri Lankans between the ages of 10 and 24 years are suffering from Depression, the same study says. 

Another study, which was done by the Royal College of Psychiatrists and published by the Cambridge University in 2023, says that “The provision of mental health staff has remained at suboptimal levels; only 34 per cent of healthcare institutions have a medical officer, and only 38 per cent a nursing officer, trained in mental healthcare.” 

The report said that Sri Lanka needs to urgently review provision for mental health services amongst the youth under the age of 19 and below, as a substantial proportion of this age group has attempted suicide (7.0 per cent) and many report experiencing interpersonal violence (35.0 per cent). 

“A further complicating factor is that Sri Lanka loses around 200,000 of its population annually owing to emigration. 75 per cent of migrating females were married, and most of them had children. Mental health problems are significantly higher among children from these families,” the report adds.