Mental health and socioeconomic crisis: the case of Greece

ABSTRACT Historically, the economic crisis affecting a country has led to an increase of social problems. The negative impact of the economic crisis on crucial social sectors such as human rights, democracy and social peace in general, has had a compromising effect both on physical and mental health, as well as on the quality of life of citizens and, on the other hand, has augmented unhealthiness and mortality. Research in various countries all over the word which have experienced, and still experience the consequences of economic crisis, has clearly shown the negative impact of socio-economic crises on human societies. Povertisation, unemployment and a sense of insecurity are at the core of these consequences, greatly affecting the citizens’ health, including their mental health no less. In 2010, in light of its considerable economic deficiencies and indebtedness, Greece officially requested the support of the International Monetary Fund (I.M.F). This resulted in great structural changes and reductions in public expenses. Salary cuts, redundancies, reduction of employment positions and financing are giving rise to a new reality. The country is entering a deep long-term crisis, with results similar to countries impacted by socio-economic crises over the years