A recent study reviewed by socialbites.ca on behalf of Renaissance Insurance Group (MOEX: RENI) suggests that Russians tend to downplay the risks associated with depression and emotional burnout.
Fewer than one in three respondents view depression as a serious societal issue, and about one in three consider burnout to be an exaggerated phenomenon. Yet there is growing interest in psychological support. While only about 20% sought professional help a year ago, the latest figures show that 29% are now turning to mental health services.
The survey paints a similar picture for depression and emotional burnout. Only 28% describe depression as a serious problem, while 34% feel it is concerning but overblown. About 38% do not believe in the existence of depression at all and attribute complaints to laziness or whim.
Regarding emotional burnout, the landscape is similar. Just 20% regard it as a serious issue, with 43% acknowledging its existence but arguing that attention to it is excessive. One in three, or 36%, are confident burnout is being compensated and managed.
Gender differences emerge in how mental health concerns are perceived. Women among the surveyed group identify depression and burnout as risks at a rate of 31% and 24% respectively, while men report 26% and 20%. Men are more likely to dismiss these issues as fictitious, with 42% and 37% denying their reality compared with 32% and 34% of women.
Notably, more than half of those who deny any psychological illness acknowledge occasional mental health symptoms, yet a staggering 91% of them do not seek professional help. This highlights a persistent gap between recognition of symptoms and pursuit of professional support.
Experts emphasize the rising need for psychologists to address stress, depression, and burnout. The survey shows 29% are now seeking regular mental health assistance, up from 21% a year earlier. The trend is boosted by greater awareness of mental health in the business sector. Employers increasingly monitor staff well-being, offer time off, hire in-house clinicians, and integrate corporate mental health programs. Access to mental health care has expanded thanks to a growing array of online platforms that enable individuals to work through concerns remotely or consult a specialist at any time, said Yulia Galanicheva, general director of Renaissance Insurance’s VHI.
Among those who regularly seek psychological help, 47% consult psychologists, 26% turn to psychiatrists or psychotherapists, and 20% engage coaches or personal development tutors. When selecting a professional, respondents emphasize formal education (37%), recommendations from friends (34%), and professional experience (25%). Price matters to only 8% of respondents. Meanwhile, more than half spend over 5,000 rubles per month on psychological services, with about 17% allocating more than 10,000 rubles.
In tough times, people often first lean on a romantic partner (25%), friends (23%), or family members (17%), and many attempt to cope independently (18%) before turning to professionals. Only 12% say their first line of support would be a psychologist or psychotherapist. For most, the best help comes from vacations (27%), conversations with friends (22%), and comfort foods (21%). Less effective avenues include unvetted online advice (22%), alcohol (19%), and cigarettes (16%).
Overall, the findings point to a growing acknowledgment that mental health matters in daily life, work performance, and personal resilience. While misperceptions remain, the trend toward seeking professional support and workplace initiatives signals a broader shift toward proactive mental well-being.