Previous generations did have those problems but it wasn't looked into, they were just labeled lunatics. I know, for example, that in my country there's probably a good amount of bipolar people, or people suffering from dementia, or severe depression, that are just labeled as lunatics and that's where they put the period. Nobody really looks deep into the problems, due to lack of technological advances and financial backing.
But, still, is it true that some people blame phantom psychological problems because they're lazy and unwilling, or allowed by society to claim those problems? Sure, but I think they're marginal.
Also, as society evolves, we'll see nothing but increased mental health problems because of the increased complexity of life, coupled with better medical equipment and training.
