Summary A UK-based study found linkage between owning accommodation and depression symptoms
(Web Desk) – Depression is not only the leading cause of ill health and disability worldwide, but it also estimated to effect as much as 300 million people, according to World Health Organization (WHO). They define it as a mental disorder which is characterized by sadness. A person suffering from depression may feel loss of interest or pleasure, feelings of guilt or low self-value. He/she may suffer from disturbed sleep or appetite, or lack the ability to concentration.
Mental disorders are concerned with various internal and external factors. A study found that people who live in rented residences are more likely to suffer from depression. The researchers indentified a link between depression symptoms and owning a permanent home. This means that living standards might play a dominant role in the mental health. The Washington Post report claimed Afghanistan as the most depressed country while Japan as least depressed.
Related: Doctor looking for a room to rent causes internet meltdown
Researchers in the UK-based study argued that people who lived in rented homes for a long period of their life show more depression symptoms. It suggests that people living in rented houses have lesser standard of life and remain in constant stress.
The study also pointed out the need for affordable housing facilities in the United Kingdom. It found a large number of adults living in rented homes. People suffering from least depression were those who bought their houses in early adult life.
One of the researchers, Bram Vanhoutte, said, “Tenure is important as it has long term effects on well-being. For older generations renting for longer is linked with lower well-being in later life, underlining the need to enhance the availability of safe, high quality and affordable housing.”
Pakistan is certainly not in the top 10 countries to find affordable housing A large number of students and professionals live in rented spaces in the metropolitan cities like Lahore, Islamabad and Karachi. It can be an interesting task to study the trends of mental health in people living in rented homes across the country.
Related: Do Women Have It Harder Renting Spaces?
