The investigation shows that the elderly are the main consumers of psychiatric drugs in Brazil and strengthen the urgency of mental health policies
A survey conducted by FunctionalThe leading company in patient support technologies revealed that the main consumers of psychiatric medicines in Brazil In the last year they were people of 58 or more. This group represents 30.6% of the total and, moreover, has a greater adherence to the treatment. On average, 9.8 months of continuity, against 6 months in other age groups.
Increase after pandemic
The analysis took place between August 2024 and July 2025, from the behavior of over 2.5 million beneficiaries of Pharmacy benefit. The study showed that 22% of this public used some psychiatric medicine in the period – higher than that recorded in 2019, before the pandemic. Another survey by the company, published in July, had already indicated a growth of 12.4% in the use of antidepressants among adults from 29 to 58 years in the last two years. This confirmed a trend that accompanies the national movement.
Impact on work and social life
According to the Ministry of Social Security, over 2024 over 472 thousand Brazilians were removed from anxiety work or depressive episodes. Therefore, there is a 67% increase compared to 2023. Currently, mental disorders already occupy 3rd place among the main causes of removal.
The National Health Survey (PNS 2019) also indicates that 10.2% of Brazilian adults have already been diagnosed with a depression, which is equivalent to about 16 million people. In 2013, the index was 7.6%, revealing a growth curve that has intensified in recent years.
Challenge for the future
IBGE projections show that in 2046 people 60 or more will represent 28% of the Brazilian population. This scenario strengthens the urgency of public and private policies that guarantee access to medicines and multi -professional follow -up, in particular in relation to chronic diseases.
Given this scenario, it is clear that mental health care must be treated as a collective priority. Investing in access to medicines, expanding emotional support programs and fighting the stigma around psychiatric disorders are fundamental steps to guarantee the quality of life, especially in a population that ages it quickly. After all, mental health is not old. It is an essential pillar for us to live with more balance, dignity and well -being in every phase of life.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
