As we approach the end of Mental Health Awareness Month in May, it’s important to reflect on the breadth and depth of mental health issues across the country. Virtually every adult agrees the country is facing a mental health crisis, as nearly a third of U.S. adults report feelings of depression and/or anxiety. Younger generations are experiencing these issues in higher numbers, with half of those ages 18-24 reporting these issues, according to a KFF/CNN study.
While COVID-19 exacerbated mental health conditions for millions of adults and children, the mental health crisis facing Americans is not limited to the pandemic. Mental health disorders have been on the rise for years. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), one in five adults in the United States experiences mental illness each year. Suicide rates have also been steadily increasing over the past decade.
There are many factors contributing to the mental health crisis, including social isolation, economic insecurity, trauma, and systemic inequalities. Furthermore, marginalized communities are disproportionately affected by mental health challenges, as they often face additional barriers to accessing care and support.
Despite the severity of the mental health crisis, many Americans still struggle to access the care they need. Mental health care is often expensive and difficult to navigate, and there is a shortage of mental health providers in many parts of the country.
Increased Access to Mental Health Resources
As mental health concerns reach unprecedented levels, many states and organizations have implemented a range of services – all aimed at bolstering access to services for those experiencing distress.
Massachusetts Behavioral Health Help Line
Recognizing mental health disorders can happen any hour of the day or night, health officials in Massachusetts have launched a free 24/7 help line for individuals in distress. Anyone can call or text the help line and be connected with a clinician who assesses the situation and can help find resources and services relevant to the person’s needs. The behavioral health help line operates in 200 different languages to further ensure anyone, regardless of their primary language, has access to mental health services.
In today’s digital world influenced by social media, teens are faced with navigating new challenges that induce stress, anxiety, and other mental wellness concerns. With a mission of enabling every teen to thrive, this youth mental health startup connects clients with affordable, trained, and relatable mentors they are comfortable talking and engaging with. The program was created alongside clinical providers to ensure quality of care.
Virginia Telemental Health Initiative (VTMHI)
Ranking 39th nationwide concerning the availability of mental health services for adults (Mental Health America, 2020), there is an acute need for behavioral and mental health services in Virginia. Started in 2022, the Virginia Telemental Health Initiative (VTMHI) is a pilot program focused on meeting the mental health needs of Virginians who are medically underserved and cannot access care due to limited income, being un- or under-insured, and provider shortages. VTMHI expands access to timely and appropriate telemental health services by collaborating with Virginia’s free and charitable clinics and mental health providers who are in the process of meeting their licensure requirements. The pilot program currently is accepting patients through three free and charitable clinics throughout the state and will onboard additional clinics in 2023.
If you are a licensed provider or in the process of meeting licensure requirements in Virginia, we encourage you to get involved.
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During Mental Health Awareness Month and beyond, it is important to remember that mental health is a critical component of a person’s overall health and well-being. By raising awareness about mental health disorders and advocating for policies and programs that support mental health, we can work towards a future where everyone has the support they need to thrive. This includes increasing access to mental health care, reducing stigma around mental illness, and promoting well-being through policies and programs that support healthy communities.