Depression and Anxiety in the Saudi Population: Epidemiological Profiles from Health Surveys and Mental Health Services.

Abstract

Depression and anxiety are prominent contributors to the global disease burden, with significant health system implications particularly in underexamined contexts such as Saudi Arabia. While existing studies often target discrete subpopulations, few have synthesized national data to evaluate mental health prevalence alongside service utilization. This study addresses that gap by analyzing 4 national datasets-the 2024 National Health Survey, the 2024 Woman and Child Health Survey, the 2017 Disability Survey, and the Ministry of Health's mental health reports-using a framework grounded in WHO standards (ie, the Mental Health Action Plan). We operationalized 8 analytical indicators covering prevalence, symptom frequency, treatment usage, diagnostic distribution, comorbidity patterns, and health system responsiveness. Descriptive statistics and latent class analyses revealed consistently high prevalence of depression and anxiety among adults, children, individuals with disabilities, and healthcare users. Women, adolescents, and chronically ill individuals reported higher symptom severity and lower access to tailored interventions. Mental health service data emphasized diagnostic overrepresentation of psychotic disorders and under-documentation of emotional distress, indicating a systemic diagnostic skew. The findings expose critical gaps between population mental health needs and current diagnostic-service frameworks. By informing SDG 3 (promoting mental health and well-being) and SDG 4 (inclusive education and well-being for children), this study supports enhanced policy design for early identification, equity-focused care, and integration of functional assessment within Saudi Arabia's mental health system.