The prevalence of mental health problems is increasing dramatically, according to the World Health Organisation. It warns that one in every four people will suffer from a mental or neurological disorder at some point during their lifetime, and says mental illness is one of the most important contributors to the global burden of disease and disability.
Depression is among the most prevalent, devastating and undertreated of all disorders, mental or physical, and is the leading cause of disability worldwide among people aged 5 years and older. In any 6-month period, an estimated 7 percent of European adults have major depression, and a further 9 percent have less severe forms of depressive illness.

Organon continues to invest considerable resources in the research and development of drugs for the treatment of mental disorders, particularly psychosis, insomnia and depression. Genomic research into manic depression and schizophrenia is also currently being conducted at Organon facilities. Scientists are studying genes to identify how they may confer susceptibility to psychiatric illness. The hope is that by understanding the biologic mechanisms involved in depression and schizophrenia, scientists can develop new compounds that act on the underlying cause of these illnesses, rather than just treat the symptoms.