Implications of the Study on the Economic Crisis Impact on the Mental Health of the Portuguese Population

Abstract

Introduction: Research shows that, in times of economic recession, mental health of the population is negatively affected, and that countries can protect their populations from these mental health risks by strengthening their policies and reorienting their services according to recommendations based on the available evidence. Although Portugal was one of the European countries most affected by the economic crisis that began in 2008, little attention was paid to the potential neg- ative consequences of the crisis for the mental health and well-being of the Portuguese population. The MH-Crisis Impact Study has been promoted to fill this gap and help to in- form policy measures that can mitigate the effects of the crisis and prevent the effects of future crises.
Objectives: To study the effects of the economic crisis on mental health of the Portuguese population and discuss its implications at the political level.
Methods: Epidemiological data on mental disorders, their determinants and use of services were compared before and after the crisis, and a qualitative study was carried out at the primary health care level.
Results: The study showed a substantial increase in the prevalence of psychological distress between 2008 and 2015, particularly relevant for those who were already part of a vulnerable group, as well as several insufficiencies in the response of the National Health Service to the increase of needs for mental health care during the crisis.
Conclusions: The discussion of the implications of these results leads us to conclude that the reduction of mental health problems of the population affected by the recent economic crisis, and the country’s preparation for better prevention of mental health problems in future economic crises, requires: 1. Generating greater political commitment; 2. Updating the national mental health plan; 3. Comprehensive strategies to improve social protection, reduce income inequalities and mitigate the impacts of unemployment; and 4. Ensuring access to integrated mental health care for all populations.