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Mental health outcomes in times of economic recession: a systematic literature review

BMC Public Health · 2015 · Vol. 16(1) · pp. 115–115

Diana Frasquilho(Universidade Nova de Lisboa)Margarida Gaspar de Matos(University of Lisbon)Ferdinand Salonna✉(Palacký University Olomouc)Diogo Frasquilho Guerreiro(University of Lisbon)Cláudia Costa Storti(European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction)Tânia Gaspar(Lusíada University of Lisbon)José Miguel Caldas‐de‐Almeida(Universidade Nova de Lisboa)

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Abstract

On the basis of a thorough analysis of the selected investigations, we conclude that periods of economic recession are possibly associated with a higher prevalence of mental health problems, including common mental disorders, substance disorders, and ultimately suicidal behaviour. Most of the research is based on cross-sectional studies, which seriously limits causality inferences. Conclusions are summarised, taking into account international policy recommendations concerning the cost-effective measures that can possibly reduce the occurrence of negative mental health outcomes in populations during periods of economic recession.

Employment and Welfare Studies Global Health Care Issues Health disparities and outcomesRecessionMedicineMental healthUnemploymentPsycINFOPsychiatrySystematic reviewMEDLINEEnvironmental healthEconomic growth