Young people are seeking more help for symptoms of anxiety and depression, but the number of diagnosed disorders is not increasing, according to a study in Norway
A team of researchers analyzed data on mental health consultations among people aged 10 to 46 in Norway’s primary care system from 2010 to 2024. They observed significant increases in consultations for symptoms of anxiety and depression, particularly among young people and especially among women. However, the proportion of consultations coded as disorders increased only slightly or remained stable. The authors suggest that this discrepancy may be due to changes in help-seeking behavior when experiencing psychological distress and in diagnostic practices, rather than an increase in mental health problems. Furthermore, they note that the growing volume of consultations for symptoms poses a challenge for primary care physicians, one that could be addressed through psychoeducation or digital interventions. The article is published in the Journal of Epidemiology & Community Health, part of the BMJ Group.