Economic cost of mental illness tops £77bn

The cost of mental illness in England adds up to £77.4 billion, twice as high as was previously estimated, according to a study published today by the Sainsbury Centre for Mental Health (SCMH).

The economic and social costs of mental illness shows that the costs of mental health problems in England comprise: £12.5 billion for care provided by the health services and family and friends; £23.1 billion in lost output in the economy caused by people being unable to work (paid and unpaid); and £41.8 billion in the human costs of reduced quality of life, and loss of life.

The report says that the costs of mental illness to businesses and to individuals "dwarf the sums of money used in treating mental health problems". Almost four out of ten adults of working age with a mental health problem have no job. According to the study this represents a loss to the economy of £9.4 billion. A figure far in excess of the £6.5 billion the NHS spent on mental health services last year.

SCMH say that many of the costs of mental illness are hidden as frequently people with mental health problems are looked after by relatives and friends on an unpaid basis – the value of this care is estimated at £3.9 billion.

Matt Muijen, SCMH chief executive, said: "Mental health problems place a major burden on individuals and society. Yet much of this burden is avoidable. Discrimination and stigma, not an inability to work, are often the causes of worklessness for those with mental health problems. And promoting good mental health remains a low priority in public services.

"Today's figures should help to put in perspective the importance to all of us of mental health. By way of comparison, the cost of mental health is greater than both the NHS budget and the total cost of crime in England. Effective prevention, treatment, care and support represent good value for everyone's money."

(GMcG)