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Dr. Bart Pattyn, Dr. Luc Van Liedekerke

פורסם: 8.02.12, 9:13 am

Field of reference: Sociology, Psychology

Description: Increase of mental illness/depression/younger generation suicide rates due to anxiety/lack of confidence/lack of respect

"In the more affluent societies, people are susceptible to mental illness when they are faced with personal problems, stress, lack of respect, etc. In high-income countries, mental illness accounts for 23% of all illness. At present, mental depression is one of the top ten most frequently occurring illnesses, and predictions indicate that by 2020 it will occupy second place (Brundtland, 1999). Since Durkheim's sociological research was carried out, it is often assumed that the positive influence generated by a community is inversely proportional to its suicide rate (Durkheim, 1897). In our society, the suicide rate is high, especially when compared with the Netherlands and England. The increase in suicide attempts by young people is particularly troubling. Between 1988 and 1997, the number of suicides between the ages of 15 and 44 increased by 43%. Various causes have been cited for uncertainty, anxiety and lack of confidence. Some are new, some have existed for a long time; some have been tested empirically, others are of a more speculative nature; but they are all part of more encompassing views of man and society."

Link to the academic paper