The ongoing economic crisis weighs heavily on the mental health of Italians, Istat national statistics bureau said Thursday.
Some 2.6 million recession-weary Italians are suffering from depression, with women of all ages twice as likely to succumb to the blues.
"Depression is the most widespread mental illness right now," Istat said.
Overall, the mental health index dropped by 1.6 points in 2013 when compared to 2005. Those most afflicted are adults aged 45-54 (-2.6 points), people under 34 (-2.7 points), and immigrant women (-5.4 points).
The physical health of Italians was stable, with 7.3% of respondents aged 14 and up reporting they are ill or very ill, down slightly from 7.4% in 2005.
"Social inequalities in health, detrimental behaviors, and access to public health care remained unchanged, with the southern regions being the most disadvantaged," Istat said
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED © Copyright ANSA
