The Untoward Effects Of Economic Crisis On Mental Health In Greece: An Overview

摘要

Economic downturns have been found to yield adverse consequences on the mental health of the population internationally. In Greece, a series of epidemiological nationwide surveys following the same methodology have recorded a gradual increase in one-month prevalence of major depression during the time period 2008-2011 and a corresponding rise in rates of suicidality. Logistic regression models have identified particular population sub-groups being at increased odds of manifesting major depression and suicidality and highlight the role of financial hardship in the onset of mental illness. Since the impact of economic downturn on mental health is generated through various pathways, any intervention aiming at mitigating the mental health effects of the crisis should be multifaceted. Telephone helplines constitute a promising venue for alleviating people's suffering.