Anxiety is a mental health disorder characterized by excessive fear or worry that can be debilitating and impact daily life. It is estimated that hundreds of millions of people worldwide suffer from some form of anxiety, making it one of the most prevalent mental health disorders.
Unfortunately, the COVID-19 pandemic has only worsened the problem, with many individuals experiencing heightened levels of stress and anxiety due to the uncertainty and isolation brought about by the pandemic.
In a recent infographic published by Charlotte's Web Library, data sourced from Our World in Data revealed the countries with the highest rates of anxiety worldwide. The study recorded data from 207 nations and found that the average prevalence of anxiety globally is 3.94%, with more than half of the countries having anxiety rates higher than that. The country with the highest rate of anxiety is Portugal, with 8.79% of its population suffering from anxiety, followed by New Zealand with 9% and Brazil with 7.77%.
In Southeast Asia, Malaysia ranked 52nd globally with 4.88% of its population suffering from anxiety, making it the country with the highest rate of anxiety in the region. This statistic means that approximately 1,610,400 Malaysians suffer from some form of anxiety, highlighting the importance of addressing this issue and taking care of our mental health.
Other Southeast Asian countries that made it to the top ten list in the study are the Philippines, with 4.75% of its population suffering from anxiety, Myanmar with 4.09%, Timor Leste with 3.91%, Indonesia with 3.7%, and Thailand with 3.57%.
Taking care of our mental wellbeing is essential, and it's crucial to prioritize it now more than ever, given the current global situation. Managing stress and anxiety can help us lead happier, healthier lives and improve our overall quality of life.
Simple lifestyle changes such as regular exercise, a balanced diet, and a good night's sleep can significantly improve our mental health. It's also essential to seek professional help when needed, and there's no shame in doing so. Counseling and therapy can provide individuals with the tools and strategies they need to manage their anxiety effectively.
Online resources are also available to help those struggling with anxiety. Self-help apps, support groups, and hotlines are just some of the resources available for individuals who need support and guidance.
We need to break the stigma surrounding mental health issues and prioritize our mental wellbeing. By taking care of ourselves and seeking support when needed, we can improve our quality of life and lead happier, healthier lives.
