Tracking Population-Level Anxiety Using Search Engine Data: Ecological Study.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Anxiety disorders are the most prevalent mental disorders globally, with a substantial impact on quality of life. The prevalence of anxiety disorders has increased substantially following the COVID-19 pandemic, and it is likely to be further affected by a global economic recession. Understanding anxiety themes and how they change over time and across countries is crucial for preventive and treatment strategies.

Objective

The aim of this study was to track the trends in anxiety themes between 2004 and 2020 in the 50 most populous countries with high volumes of internet search data. This study extends previous research by using a novel search-based methodology and including a longer time span and more countries at different income levels.

Methods

We used a cr

SUBMITTER: Gilbert BJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10131769 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature