Authors Tyler Phillips (Research Psychologist & Research and Content Consultant) and Dr Etienne van der Walt (Neurologist and CEO & founder of Neurozone®)
Mental health challenges are a growing concern worldwide. Globally, an estimated 322 million adults experience clinical depression, while 264 million live with an anxiety disorder. In South Africa, the picture is just as alarming—about 25% of adults have been diagnosed with clinical depression or anxiety.
The Economic Crises of Mental Health
Beyond the personal toll, as a leading cause of disability mental health disorders are a significant economic issue. Untreated depression and anxiety contribute to lost productivity and absenteeism, costing the global economy roughly $1 trillion each year. In South Africa alone, depression-related workplace absenteeism and reduced productivity cost over R200 billion annually.
While public health funding can help address mental health issues, it has limitations. In the 2016-2017 financial year, for example, just 5% of South Africa’s public health budget was allocated to mental health services, with 86% of that directed toward inpatient care. Despite these efforts, 92% of South Africans who need mental health care do not receive it. Clearly, cost-effective solutions to support mental well-being are urgently needed.
Psychological Resilience as a Protective Factor
One promising solution is building psychological resilience. Research shows that resilience can help protect against anxiety, depression, and burnout. At Neurozone®, we have extensively studied these connections using psychiatric instruments and the Neurozone® Resilience Index (NRI), a validated measure of psychological resilience.
Our findings reveal that a 10% increase in NRI scores can predict:
Microlearning: A Practical Approach to Building Resilience
Improving resilience doesn’t require clinical intervention. One accessible way to enhance resilience is through microlearning—a structured approach to learning in small, manageable pieces. Neurozone®’s microlearning journey provides insights into the brain-body system, stress responses, and strategies for resilience-building, all in easily digestible modules that fit into a busy schedule.
In a case study, individuals who engaged in the microlearning journey improved their NRI scores by 10%. This increase in resilience suggests that their symptoms of anxiety, depression, and burnout would likely have reduced in line with the trends identified in our research.
A Cost-Effective Strategy for Mental Well-being
Given its accessibility and effectiveness, microlearning presents a promising way to strengthen resilience and mitigate the personal and economic costs of mental health challenges. By investing in resilience, individuals and organizations can take proactive steps toward a healthier, more productive future.