The economic burden of anxiety disorders in Canada

Concern over the costs of medical conditions has traditionally overshadowed interest in assessing the costs of mental health problems. Recent research, however, indicates that mental disorders impose considerable costs on society and on the sufferer. Most of this research comes from the United States, while little is known about health-care use patterns, impairment, and costs associated with psychological problems in Canada. Given that cost containment has become a priority, it is crucial to examine mental disorders that may exert pressure on Canada's health-care system. Among mental health problems, anxiety disorders have received considerable attention, as they have been shown to be costly. Among the anxiety disorders, generalized anxiety disorder deserves closer examination as it is highly prevalent in the community and in the general medical sector, and has been shown to be disabling, which suggests that this disorder is a potential cost driver.