Socioeconomic factors and housing crisis impact health in Spain

Recent reports in Spain highlight the significant impact of socioeconomic factors on mental and physical health. According to the II Radiography of Health Self-Care in Spain by the Asociación para el Autocuidado de la Salud (anefp), the primary drivers affecting mental health are personal and social relationships (67.3%), lack of economic resources (66.7%), work (55.9%), and uncertainty (54.6%). Data from 2025 shows an increase in the influence of these factors compared to previous years.

Complementing this, the Sociedad Española de Epidemiología (SEE) has issued a position paper stating that the housing crisis is a public health issue. The SEE argues that access to stable, secure, and affordable housing is a fundamental right linked to health. They note that housing instability, overcrowding, and extreme indoor temperatures are associated with respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, as well as mental health issues like anxiety and depression. Furthermore, high housing costs often force families to reduce spending on essential needs such as food, heating, and medication.