
23/09/2025
What are non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and how do they connect to mental health?
NCDs refer to a wide range of chronic diseases that are nontransmissible and often lifelong. This includes cardiovascular diseases, chronic respiratory diseases, diabetes, and cancers. Severe childhood-onset NCDs include sickle cell disease, type 1 diabetes, and childhood heart diseases.
Mental health and NCDs are deeply interconnected. Many mental health conditions, such as depression and anxiety, are chronic conditions. Conversely, individuals with NCDs like diabetes or heart disease are at a significantly higher risk of experiencing mental health challenges.
UNICEF is committed to ensuring that children impacted by NCDs and mental health conditions receive the care and support they need.