U.S. Faces Shortage of Mental Health Professionals
The COVID-19 pandemic worsened underlying mental health issues for many Americans. However, mental health care and treatment barriers have existed for some time. One of the most significant barriers is the lack of mental health professionals. Experts predict that within the next year, the United States will be short between 14,280 and 31,109 mental health professionals.
The latest Health Resources and Services Administration data estimates that 122 million Americans (37% of the population) live in areas with a mental health professional shortage. It would take an additional 6,398 mental health providers to fill those gaps. Mental health shortages across the nation range in severity but are generally found in rural areas.
“We have a chronic shortage of psychiatrists, and it’s going to keep growing. People can’t get care. It affects their lives, their ability to work, to socialize or even to get out of bed.”
- Saul Levin, MD, CEO and medical director of the American Psychiatric Association
Amid this shortage, there’s a worsening mental health crisis in America. According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, 40% of American adults report symptoms of anxiety and depression. Additionally, a U.S. Department of Health and Human Services survey revealed that the number of children (ages 3-17) diagnosed with anxiety grew by 29% and those with depression rose by 27%. Moreover, while suicide affects all ages, it’s the second leading cause of death for people ages 10-14 and 25-34. Americans need mental help support now more than ever.
Getting Mental Health Care
Although many Americans deal with strained health care resources, there are some ways to still receive mental health support. Telehealth is a great place to start receiving virtual mental health care, especially for those living in rural areas. Additional support resources include:
Primary care doctors who can suggest mental health resources
Work-based wellness and employee assistance programs
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s (SAMHSA) National Helpline, which is free, confidential and available 24/7 by calling 800-662-HELP (800-662-4357)
SAMHSA’s 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, a three-digit dialing code offering free, confidential and 24/7 call, text and chat with trained crisis counselors
As the country faces a looming recession and uncertainty further jeopardizing Americans’ mental health, it’s important to check in with yourself and reach out for help if needed.
The content of this News Brief is of general interest and is not intended to apply to specific circumstances. It should not be regarded as legal advice and not be relied upon as such. In relation to any particular problem which they may have, readers are advised to seek specific advice. © 2023 Zywave, Inc. All rights reserved.