Is the prevalence of mental disorders a good measure of the need for services?

Mental disorders are highly prevalent, but prevalence is different from need for treatment. Some mental disorders are a major source of distress, disability, and social burden, and many people who could benefit from treatment do not receive it. Need is typically self-defined or defined by clinicians who are motivated to bring treatment to those who could benefit. Defining need appropriately requires consideration of the duration and reoccurrence of disorder, associated distress and disability, and the likelihood that treatment will be beneficial. Demand may be promoted inappropriately by clinicians and drug manufacturers who profit from expansion of demand. Future assessments of need must be based on evidence and take into account priorities for care and cost-effectiveness.