Mental health has become the primary health concern for Britons, surpassing cancer and obesity, according to a global survey by Ipsos.

This shift in public perception is attributed to increased mental ill-health due to the Covid pandemic, the cost of living crisis, and male violence against women.

The survey, conducted in 31 countries, found that 54% of Britons now view mental health as a major issue, up from 50% in 2018.

Meanwhile, concern for obesity and cancer has decreased to 36% and 49% respectively.

Globally, 45% now see mental wellbeing as a critical issue, up from 27% in 2018.

Experts note this as a fundamental shift in attitudes towards mental health, influenced by rising stress levels.

The Ipsos survey involved 23,667 participants across countries including the US, Malaysia, and India, with a representative sample of 1,000 Britons.

Women and younger people are more likely to be concerned about mental health compared to men and older generations.