Austerity is often used as a tool to address economic challenges. Austerity measures are common in developed countries, and they often involve cutting government spending on services and programs.

In recent years, austerity policies have been linked to poor mental health outcomes among citizens. Researchers have argued that austerity measures, which are targeted at the most vulnerable segments of the population can lead to increased levels of anxiety, depression and other mental health challenges on individuals.

The Study: Understanding the Link between Austerity and Mental Health

A 2015 study conducted by the Mental Health Foundation found a link between austerity and mental health. The research investigated the impact of austerity measures on the mental health of individuals in the United Kingdom.

The study revealed that the implementation of austerity policies in the country had led to a rise in mental health issues among citizens. The research, which involved almost 2,000 people, found that the levels of depression and anxiety had increased by a fifth since 2010 – the year austerity measures were introduced in the UK.

The researchers also reported higher levels of drug and alcohol abuse among members of society affected by austerity measures.

The study found that this group had reported increased levels of worry and stress due to financial difficulties arising from reduced government services and their impact on their livelihoods.

Why Does Austerity Lead to Poor Mental Health?

Implementing austerity measures can have a range of impact on individuals and society at large. These impacts can lead to long-term consequences which affect the mental health of those individuals and communities.

One of the reasons behind the association of austerity policies with poor mental health outcomes is the interference with the social support system.

Social support structures can act as a buffer against mental health issues that may arise from the challenges in everyday life, especially during difficult times. However, austerity policies may unravel the social support networks by reducing access to services such as counseling, healthcare, and social safety nets which play significant roles in the well-being of the individual and community.

Austerity measures can also impact the working and living conditions of individuals, which can lead to increased levels of stress, anxiety, and depression.

Reduction in wages, job losses, cuts in public services and welfare benefits can reduce the wellbeing of individuals who rely on these services. These pressures can also cause social deprivation, increase inequality, and exacerbate mental health issues.

What can be done to address the impact of Austerity on Mental health?

The link between austerity and mental health has been established. This requires appropriate responses to mitigate the negative impact of austerity policies on individuals and society at large.

Some of the interventions that can be implemented to address this challenge include the revision of the fiscal policies to prioritize the needs of the most vulnerable in society. Governments can also invest in programs and services to support the social and mental wellbeing of citizens.

Additionally, there is a need for better understanding of the link between mental health and austerity.

Increased awareness of the impact of these policies on mental health can support the development of better policies, interventions, and support systems. Mental health should be central in policy development and decision-making processes to support the wellbeing of individuals and communities.

The Bottom Line

Austerity measures can have significant impacts on the mental health of individuals and communities. Governments need to acknowledge this link and do more to mitigate the negative impact of austerity policies on mental health.

By prioritizing the wellbeing of citizens, especially the most vulnerable, policymakers can address the root causes of the challenges highlighted in this study and promote positive mental health outcomes across society.