AROUND one in seven people across Basingstoke and Deane suffer from depression – and figures reveal how rates vary across the area.

An analysis of NHS estimates by the House of Commons Library, shows 13.7 per cent of adult GP patients across Basingstoke and Deane, had a diagnosis of depression in 2019-20.

Depression levels across the borough are higher than the English average of 11.5 per cent.

Charity Mind said England is now facing a "mental health pandemic" and are calling for a stronger Government approach to tackle the widening inequalities in care.

Out of Basingstoke and Deane's 22 areas, Popley residents were hit the hardest with mental health struggles with 16.6 per cent of adult patients were diagnosed as depressed.

At the other end of the scale was Woolton Hill, Burghclere and Bishops Green where 9.8 per cent of patients were depressed.

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The mental health charity Mind said bereavement, isolation, and the economic recession mean the nation is now facing a "mental health pandemic", and that a strategic approach from the Government is needed.

Recent research from Mind also found that the lack of face-to-face support caused by the pandemic has been particularly hard for those with severe mental health problems such as psychosis and schizophrenia.

The House of Commons Library data shows that 0.8 per cent of patients across Basingstoke and Deane were diagnosed with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and other psychoses last year.

The Mental Health Foundation said bullying, particularly within gang culture, is one of the key triggers for being diagnosed with schizophrenia – and is often higher in poorer areas.

Vicki Nash, head of policy and campaigns at Mind, said: "This strategy must focus specifically on communities disproportionately affected by the pandemic, including racialised communities and young people.

"It must address widening inequalities, sort out our woefully underfunded social care system, fund public health, and make sure the education system supports young people’s wellbeing.

“It’s important that no matter where you live, you are able to get the support you need when you need it."