National Statistics Institute (INE) report on the latest National Health Survey in Spain this week suggests one in five Spain residents may have a propensity toward some type of mental health issue. Although, this was the first time a National Health Survey in Spain focused on such a preventive medicine aspect as Mental Health.

The findings based on the INE study conclude that based on measured responses to 12 questions -presented to 38,600 study participants- a bit more than 21% are at risk of developing some form of mental health issue in the future. The study measured participant responses regarding issues such as sleep habits and mood fluctuations. While the report did separate the participants into two age groups, the results were very similar.

Fernando Chacon, head of association of psychologists in Madrid, explained responses to the 12 questions are a measure of the individual’s propensity to suffer illnesses such as depression or anxiety.

But, is it a fair assessment to suggest such potential for future mental health issues when the measurement is based only on a 12 question survey? Or, is it that given this is the first time the national health survey in Spain focused on mental health that the findings and reporting are a bit askew?

If this study’s findings are truly accurate, Residents of Spain certainly have little to look forward to in years to come. Clearly, one in five at risk places each resident of Spain at really good odds of future suffering. And, if the reported findings are a bit high and off the mark; then, perhaps next years National Health Survey should put a bit more forethought into the planning of their study.

The study conducted by the National Statistics Institute was the first time the National Health Survey in Spain focused on such an issue as the mental health of the population.