Nearly one in five (19%) of people in the UK aged 16 and over have displayed some forms of anxiety or depression, the Office of National Statistics (ONS) has found.
The research identified some evidence of anxiety or depression in a higher percentage of women (21%) than men (16%) across each age group.
In 2010-11 there was variation by age: the lowest indication of anxiety or depression was in the youngest age group and highest in those aged 50 to 54.
Symptoms were more prevalent among those who were not in paid work (23%) compared to those who were in paid employment (15%).
Around two-fifths (38%) of those who said they were relatively unhappy with their health had some indication of anxiety or depression, compared to 11% of those who said they were relatively satisfied with their health.
In addition, the ONS said having anxiety and depression has been shown to be related to limitations in daily activities.
About 14% of those who reported no limitation showed some symptoms of anxiety or depression. This compares to 26% of those with a little limitation and nearly 41% of those who reported a lot of limitation, the research found.
Previous research highlighted by Legal & General had found during 2011 14m work days were lost due to mental health conditions.
