Impact of urbanization on mental health and well being.

Abstract

Purpose of review: It is predicted that by mid-21st century, over two-thirds of the world population will be urban. The shift from rural to urban living causes a major shift in priorities of public health. The current article aims at illuminating the urbanization process, its challenges and ramifications for mental health and well being of urban dwellers.

Recent findings: Currently, 55% of world population resides in urban areas. By 2050, that percentage will be at least 68%, mostly in developing and emerging economies. Adequate mental health and socioeconomic support services for the new urban migrants are almost nonexistent.

Summary: Adequate psychosocial clinics are an absolute urgent necessity in the neighborhoods where new migrants reside. Governments' policies and funding should be re-prioritized. For effective advocacy, descriptive comprehensive interdisciplinary epidemiological data should be an initial step of research. This should be followed by investigations of the biopsychosocial-economic causes and processes, which would point to adequate culturally sensitive practical solutions.