20 Most Depressed Cities in the World

In this article, we will take a look at the 20 most depressed cities in the world.

Depression, clinically referred to as major depressive disorder (MDD), holds a significant position in the global healthcare landscape. Typically managed through a combination of antidepressant medications and psychotherapy, it can occasionally transform into a condition known as treatment-resistant depression (TRD). A substantial number of chronic disabilities are associated with depression, with major depressive disorder ranking as the higher leading cause of disability. Treatment-resistant depression is identified in approximately 7% of major depressive disorder cases. Addressing the needs of these patients hinges on gaining insights into the underlying reasons for their resistance to conventional treatments. A high level of body mass index (BMI) has been documented as a potential risk factor for major depressive disorder, possibly due to its impact on physical health, which, in turn, can affect mood adversely. Remarkably, this link between BMI and the subsequent onset of depression was observed in more than 25% of cases. Moreover, the likelihood of developing major depressive disorder later increases as BMI rises.

Depression is prevalent in the United States. In fact, as per a national survey conducted by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services in 2020, 8.4% of adults reported encountering symptoms of depression in the year preceding the survey. This mental health condition is significantly prevalent within the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) community. According to the 2021-2022 Household Pulse Survey conducted by the U.S. Census Bureau, it was found that half of the LGBT respondents aged 18 to 29 reported experiencing depressive symptoms, in contrast to 29% of their non-LGBT peers in the same age group. Additionally, women are more susceptible to receiving a diagnosis of depression compared to men, although it’s possible that men are less inclined to seek diagnosis and treatment for mental health concerns.

Symptoms of depression aren’t always as obvious as frequent crying and overpowering despair. Oftentimes the changes are subtle, and the person may not notice, but their friends and loved ones may. Depression doesn’t follow a uniform pattern, and its progression can differ significantly from one person to another. Symptoms may evolve gradually, starting with milder indications, such as opting to stay in and watch TV rather than going for a walk with a friend, and may progress to more severe signs, like struggling to get out of bed for basic activities such as showering or having persistent thoughts of suicide.

Depression Comes in Different Forms

You may be experiencing a major depressive disorder (MDD) if you consistently feel depressed for most days of the week. Persistent depressive disorder (PDD) is the term used when depression endures for an extended period of 2 years or more, encompassing two conditions previously identified as dysthymia – characterized by low-grade persistent depression, and chronic major depression. Another type of this mental health condition is called the bipolar disorder. An individual experiencing bipolar disorder, also known as manic depression, goes through mood swings ranging from elevated energy and an up mood to periods of low mood or depression. During the low phase, the individual exhibits symptoms characteristic of major depression. Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a form of major depression that primarily occurs during the winter months when daylight hours shorten, resulting in reduced exposure to sunlight. Generally, seasonal affective disorder tends to alleviate with the arrival of spring and summer.

Moreover, individuals grappling with psychotic depression experience the typical symptoms of major depression alongside psychotic manifestations, including hallucinations, delusions, and paranoia. Peripartum depression, experienced by women in the weeks and months following childbirth, is a condition characterized by major depression. Interestingly, approximately 1 in 10 men also encounter depression during the peripartum period. Another type of depression that only affects women is the Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD). Women diagnosed with PMDD experience symptoms of depression and other associated issues at the onset of their menstrual period. Lastly, situational depression. While not a formal psychiatric term, this refers to a depressed mood that arises when an individual is struggling to cope with a challenging life event, such as a family member’s death, a divorce, or job loss. In clinical terms, this condition may be referred to as stress response syndrome.

When not addressed, depression can significantly impede daily functioning and lead to substantial distress for individuals. Fortunately, there are numerous effective treatment choices accessible, including psychotherapy, prescribed medications, and lifestyle adjustments.

Our Methodology

Our ranking of the world’s 20 most depressed cities relies on a comprehensive compilation of data from 10 distinct sources (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10). Our research commenced by identifying over 50 cities referenced in these sources, and whenever a city was mentioned, accompanied by a percentage concerning its population’s depression rates, we assigned corresponding points to that particular city. Following an analysis of this information, we then curated our list of the 20 cities with the highest reported levels of depression globally.

20 Most Depressed Cities in the World

20. Manila, Philippines

Manila, the capital and primary metropolis of the Philippines, serves as the focal point for the nation’s economic, political, social, and cultural life. In the Philippines, specifically, there are an estimated six million individuals experiencing depression or anxiety. During the period of 2021-2022, there were reported cases of 2,551 Filipino students attempting suicide, tragically resulting in 404 fatalities. The majority of these cases came from Manila.

19. Paris, France

Paris is France’s capital and its most densely inhabited urban center, with an estimated population of more than 2,102,000 inhabitants recorded as of January 1, 2023. Based on the most recent data collected in December 2022, it is observed that 17% of the French population exhibits symptoms of depression, which is an increase of 7% compared to the period before the pandemic. Additionally, 24% of the population displays symptoms of anxiety.

18. Linfen, China

Linfen is situated in the southwestern region of Shanxi Province, encompassing an area of 20,302 square kilometers and hosting a population of approximately 4.50 million residents. The high pollution levels are having a detrimental impact on the well-being of Linfen’s residents, leading to an increasing influx of patients suffering from conditions such as bronchitis, pneumonia, and lung cancer at local clinics.

17. Damascus, Syria

Established during the 3rd millennium B.C., Damascus stands as one of the ancient cities in the Middle East. Throughout the Middle Ages, it thrived as a central hub for a prosperous craft industry, particularly renowned for its production of swords and lace. In Damascus, the absence of a water supply and deteriorating sewage systems present significant health hazards. The water shortages in this Syrian city and its neighboring regions have affected approximately 5.5 million individuals, elevating their susceptibility to waterborne illnesses. These issues contribute to the prevalence of depression among the city’s population, among other factors.

16. Al Ain, UAE

Al Ain, situated within the United Arab Emirates (UAE), is an oasis city located inland along the eastern border adjacent to Oman. It has earned the moniker “Garden City” due to its abundant palm groves and natural springs. As of 2023, the metropolitan area of Al Ain has a population of 645,000, reflecting a 1.74% growth compared to the previous year in 2022. Within the Arab region, the United Arab Emirates exhibits the highest prevalence of depression, affecting one out of every four individuals, who experience mental health issues. Among the most frequently diagnosed conditions are depression and anxiety, with 5.1% of the population meeting the clinical criteria for diagnosis. Most of the cases come from Al Ain.

15. Sao Paulo, Brazil

São Paulo, recognized as Brazil’s dynamic financial hub, stands as one of the most densely inhabited cities globally. As of 2023, the population of São Paulo is recorded at 22,620,000, indicating a 0.85% rise compared to the figures from 2022. In Brazil, despite having established mental health laws and policies, a significant portion of individuals suffering from depression still go unnoticed and receive inadequate treatment. A study conducted in São Paulo reveals a notable prevalence of anxiety, depression, and concurrent anxiety and depression. The likely explanation for this phenomenon can be attributed to the local conditions, which encompass an urban environment, pronounced economic disparities, and a heightened incidence of violence.

14. Kanpur, India

Kanpur, with a population of 3 million residents, is joined by 13 additional Indian cities on a list of locations with the most severe air quality issues worldwide, as per the recent rankings unveiled by the World Health Organization (WHO). However, similar to many other Indian cities, Kanpur lacks the necessary infrastructure to combat air pollution, as indicated by federal environmental ministry officials. The escalating issues stemming from air pollution are contributing to a surge in various illnesses, including bronchial asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and pneumonia. Ultimately, these problems lead to a decline in people’s mental well-being, causing depression.

13. Jakarta, Indonesia

Jakarta grapples with congestion, pollution, seismic vulnerabilities, and an alarming rate of subsidence into the Java Sea. Currently, the government is actively planning to relocate Indonesia’s capital to the island of Borneo. This transition presents a significant challenge, particularly for Jakarta residents who have limited options for relocation.

12. Tijuana, Mexico

Tijuana is grappling with the challenges posed by its expanding population. As of 2023, the metropolitan area of Tijuana has reached a population of 2,260,000, indicating a 1.76% rise compared to the previous year in 2022. Additionally, the city is host to numerous squatters who lack formal land titles, and a significant portion of them hail from outside the state, potentially not being accounted for in official population figures.

11. Bakersfield, California, USA

Situated approximately two hours to the north of Los Angeles along the Kern River, and adjacent to the Sequoia National Forest, you’ll find the city of Bakersfield, California. Bakersfield faces significant challenges, including homelessness and incidents of gun violence. The city has garnered a negative reputation for its safety, as evidenced by its current crime rate, which stands at 47 incidents per every 1,000 residents.

10. Los Angeles, California, USA

Los Angeles landed in the top 10 most depressing cities in the world. Los Angeles boasts Hollywood celebrities, upscale shopping, picturesque beach destinations, and a rich cultural scene. However, behind this luxury, lies a concerning issue. The homeless population in Los Angeles has increased by 9%, with over 75,000 individuals currently grappling with homelessness throughout the county, as reported by government data from the latest annual count.

9. Aleppo, Syria

As Syria’s second-largest city, Aleppo serves as a pivotal agricultural trading hub and is home to factories specializing in the production of carpets, silk, cotton, and wool textiles. The conflict in Syria has given rise to the most significant refugee and displacement crisis in recent history, impacting millions of individuals and extending into neighboring nations.

8. Guangzhou, China

Within a Chinese household, each member shoulders the duty of upholding and enhancing the family’s image. There is a prevailing belief that mental health challenges can impede individuals from meeting the expectations set by parents, whether in academic, social, career, or other aspects. Factors like population density, the adequacy of public spaces, land use diversity, and street connectivity have been found to directly influence the manifestation of depressive symptoms in Guangzhou, China.

7. Cairo, Egypt

In 2011, Cairo gained notoriety for its lack of safety for women due to a series of widely reported sexual assaults that occurred in Tahrir Square. Additionally, Cairo faces a significant issue with sanitation, characterized by extensive piles of garbage accumulating along the streets, street vendors selling fruits and juices amidst vast mounds of trash, and even instances of horses sleeping amid the garbage.

6. Mumbai, India

Ranking 6th in our list of the most depressed cities in the world is Mumbai, India. Mumbai’s primary challenge lies in the proliferation of informal settlements referred to as “slums” in India. These slums pose various challenges for residents, encompassing issues such as inadequate access to clean water and sanitation facilities, subpar healthcare, limited educational opportunities, high unemployment rates, and the potential for increased crime.

5. Pripyat, Ukraine

Pripyat, alternatively referred to as Prypiat, is an uninhabited city situated in the northern region of Ukraine, in proximity to the Belarusian border. The most severe incident in the history of nuclear power unfolded during the early hours of April 26, 1986, when an explosion rocked one of the reactors at the Chernobyl (or Chornobyl) nuclear power plant, situated approximately 100 kilometers to the north of Ukraine’s capital, Kiev (or Kyiv). A significant portion of the released radioactive contamination settled in the vicinity of the power plant, causing severe contamination of nearby villages and the adjacent city of Pripyat, which underwent a rapid evacuation on April 27, 1986. In the aftermath of the catastrophe, Pripyat was deserted and subsequently succeeded by the newly constructed city of Slavutych.

Although residing anywhere within the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone is officially prohibited at present, authorities exercise leniency towards individuals who opt to reside in certain areas with lower radiation levels. As a result, approximately 1,000 people presently call Pripyat their home.

4. Mosul, Iraq

Iraq has endured a period of civil conflict, political instability, pervasive corruption, and a radical insurgency that gained control over a significant portion of the nation. In the midst of these challenges, the city of Mosul has been severely devastated. Traffic congestion plagues the city’s damaged bridges, and individuals affected by the conflict often resort to selling items like tissues, cigarettes, and tea to make a living.

3. Dhaka, Bangladesh

Dhaka ranks 3rd in our list of the most depressed cities in the world. The living conditions within Dhaka’s slums are more dire compared to those in rural areas, despite the advantage of being closer to employment opportunities. The air, water, and soil in these slums have reached hazardous levels of pollution.

2. Pyongyang, North Korea

In North Korea, women and girls face pervasive gender discrimination, elevated rates of sexual violence and harassment, and continuous exposure to government-sanctioned gender stereotypes. These challenges add to the broader abuses experienced by the entire population. Human traffickers and intermediaries, frequently with ties to government authorities, compel women into forced labor, sexual exploitation, and sexual servitude in China, sometimes even involving forced marriages. According to many defectors, Pyongyang is one of the most depressing places to live in the world.

1. Norilsk, Russia

Topping our list is Norilsk, Russia. The city can be considered as the most depressed city in the world. Norilsk’s severe pollution has resulted in residents experiencing elevated rates of cancer, lung diseases, blood, and skin disorders, as well as heightened levels of depression. While there are numerous complaints about the city, including its governance, poor environmental conditions, challenging climate, isolation due to expensive plane tickets, and slow internet, the people of Norilsk maintain a profound attachment and genuine love for their city.

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Disclosure: None. 20 Most Depressed Cities in the World is originally published on Insider Monkey.