Global survey: mental health is people's most-cited health concern
According to Ipsos, 48% count mental health among the biggest health problems in their country, up from 27% in 2018. In Europe, three in four see their system as overstretched.
Symbolic image · Photo: Harrison Keely / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 4.0 (cropped and resized)
Mental health is people's top health worry around the world. According to the Health Service Report 2026 by market research firm Ipsos, published on Oct. 8, an average of 48% across 32 countries name it as one of the biggest health problems facing their country. In 2018, the figure was 27%; the issue has ranked first since 2023. It is followed by cancer (40%), stress (32%) and obesity (25%).
Only 45% of respondents rate healthcare in their country as good, with Malaysia scoring best (74%) and Hungary worst (13%). Some 64% consider their health system overstretched. The biggest problems cited are access and waiting times (47%), staff shortages (43%) and treatment costs (32%).
In Europe, dissatisfaction is particularly high, according to Ipsos: 76% consider health services overstretched, and staff shortages (55%) and access to treatment (52%) rank above the global average. In the spring, an Ipsos survey for the German organization Aktion Mensch had already pointed out that people with disabilities in particular face barriers to accessing care.
This article is for information only and is not legal, tax, financial or medical advice. Figures as of the date stated.