The difference in the quality of medical care received by people with mental illness is one of the reasons why they live shorter lives than people without mental illness. Even in the best-resourced countries in the world, this life expectancy gap is as much as 20 years. In the developing countries of the world, this gap is even larger.
This quote highlights a critical issue: individuals with mental illnesses often do not receive equitable healthcare, leading to significantly reduced life expectancy. It underscores the urgent need to address disparities in mental health services worldwide. Improving access and quality of mental healthcare can bridge this gap, ultimately saving lives and enhancing overall well-being for vulnerable populations. The stark contrast between resource-rich and developing nations further emphasizes the importance of global health equity and the integration of mental health into overall healthcare systems.
