Mental health: depression and anxiety

Depression, sometimes referred to as unipolar depression, is a common mental health problem characterised by persistent sadness, loss of interest in activities, and decreased energy. 

The term ‘anxiety’ refers to a broad category of conditions including Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD), a long-term condition which causes people to feel constant unease, worry or fear unrelated to a specific issue. Anxiety is the main symptom of several conditions, including panic disorder, phobias, post-traumatic stress disorder, and social phobia or social anxiety disorder. For more information on GAD, see the NHS overview – Generalised anxiety disorder in adults.  

The burdens of disease due to depression (490kB) and anxiety (484kB) in Scotland have been calculated as part of the Scottish Burden of Disease study. In 2016, there were approximately 408,300 individuals aged 16+ years in the Scottish population suffering disability due to depression, and 473,000 people suffering disability due to anxiety. 

Data on the prevalence of depression and anxiety symptoms are reported in the Scottish Health Survey.

• In 2021/22, 13% of adults reported two or more symptoms of depression. This has increased from 8% in 2008/09, and there were no significant differences between men and women.
• In 2021/22, 17% of adults reported two or more symptoms of anxiety. This has increased from 9% in 2008/09. Women were more likely to report anxiety symptoms than men.