The latest findings from the Global Mind Project have exposed a concerning reality about mental wellbeing, particularly in the United Kingdom. Shockingly, this news received minimal attention in the media. According to the project’s assessment of 71 countries, the UK, along with South Africa, stands out for having the highest proportion of people experiencing mental distress. Furthermore, the UK ranks second worst overall in terms of mental health, only surpassing Uzbekistan. The decline in mental wellbeing within the UK surpasses that of any comparable nation. Despite these alarming statistics, the question remains: why hasn’t this been a headline issue?
The Global Mind Project points to factors like smartphone usage and consumption of ultra-processed foods as contributing to this decline. While these factors may play a role, they are not unique to the UK. A significant part of the problem seems to stem from the visible regression in various aspects of life within the country.
There was a time when the majority of people in the UK held onto promises that economic growth would benefit everyone, ensuring better housing, more fulfilling jobs, increased economic stability, and leisure time. They believed in continual improvements in education, healthcare, and the environment, along with advancements in governance and democratic participation. However, despite significant financial resources and advancements in science and technology, these promises remain unfulfilled.
Instead of progress, many aspects of life in the UK have deteriorated. The societal challenges identified by William Beveridge in 1942, labeled as “want, disease, ignorance, squalor, and idleness,” have resurfaced with new vigor. Poverty, health issues, educational disparities, inadequate housing, and a crumbling infrastructure now plague the nation. These problems have been accompanied by environmental degradation, political dysfunction, injustices, and distractions fueled by cultural conflicts.
The root cause of these broken promises and societal dysfunctions lies in neoliberalism—an ideology that prioritizes competition and economic choices over political ones. Neoliberalism advocates for minimal state intervention and favors market forces to determine success and failure. Despite its significant influence in shaping policies and governance over the past 45 years, neoliberalism is often overlooked or mislabeled.
The dominance of neoliberalism has led to a belief that there are no alternatives to its principles, perpetuating its grip on society. Even as its failures become increasingly evident, neoliberal policies persist, endorsed by both major political parties. The promise of a better future is continuously deferred, keeping the public engaged in a cycle of unfulfilled expectations.
In the face of environmental challenges, the government emphasizes immediate gratification over long-term sacrifices, further eroding trust in governance. The endless cycle of promises and disappointments takes a toll on the mental health of the population, making the UK’s low ranking in mental wellbeing hardly surprising.
In summary, the findings of the Global Mind Project shed light on the urgent need for addressing mental health issues in the UK. Beyond addressing immediate factors, a critical examination of societal values and policies, particularly those influenced by neoliberalism, is necessary to ensure a better future for all.
