5 Reasons Behind the Worsening Mental Health Problems in America Today

 5 Reasons Behind the Worsening Mental Health Problems in America Today

Introduction:

In recent years, mental health problems have been on the rise in America, posing a significant challenge to individuals and society as a whole. This blog post delves into the underlying factors contributing to the deterioration of mental health in the country. By understanding these reasons, we can work towards effective solutions and support systems to address this pressing issue.

1. Shortage of Mental Health Specialists:

A scarcity of mental health experts, such as psychologists and psychiatrists, is a major contributor to the worsening mental health situation. Compared to countries like the Netherlands and Sweden, where over 90% of primary care offices have mental health professionals on staff, America faces a significant deficit in accessible mental health services (Alang, Sirry M, 2019).

2. Economic Turmoil:

The impact of economic devastation on mental health cannot be overlooked. Research indicates a strong correlation between suicide rates, drug abuse, and economic turmoil. During the Great Recession, for instance, suicide rates increased by 1.6% for every basis point rise in the unemployment rate (Blanchflower & Bryson, 2021).

3. The Pandemic's Toll:

The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated the existing mental health crisis in America. The demand for accessible and culturally accepting mental health support services has surged. Even before the pandemic, the mental health treatment system was failing, particularly for marginalized communities. The high cost, scarcity, and coercive nature of available services have hindered effective care (Fitzpatrick, Harris & Drawve, 2020).

4. Social Discrimination:

Minority groups and those facing socioeconomic challenges often bear a disproportionate burden of mental illness. Inadequate resources, discrimination, and disparities in access to care create barriers to mental health support. Addressing systemic racism, fostering inclusivity, and ensuring equitable access to services are crucial steps towards improving mental health outcomes (Blanchflower & Bryson, 2021).

5. Modern Lifestyle and Technology:

The advent of technology has brought about a significant impact on mental and physical health. Excessive reliance on digital devices and social media can contribute to psychological disorders such as distraction, immediate gratification, and feelings of isolation. Balancing online and offline interactions, managing screen time, and prioritizing self-care can help individuals maintain overall mental well-being (Mihailescu & Neiterman, 2019).

Conclusion:

The worsening mental health problems in America can be attributed to various factors, including the shortage of mental health specialists, economic challenges, the impact of the pandemic, social discrimination, and the influence of modern lifestyles. By addressing these issues, promoting access to affordable care, and fostering a supportive and inclusive society, we can take significant strides towards improving mental health outcomes for all.

References:

- Alang, Sirry M. (2019). Mental health care among blacks in America: Confronting racism and constructing solutions. Health Services Research, 54(2), 346–355.

- Blanchflower, D. G., & Bryson, A. (2021). Biden, Covid and mental health in America. National Bureau of Economic Research.

- Fitzpatrick, K. M., Harris, C., & Drawve, G. (2020). Fear of COVID-19 and the mental health consequences in America. Psychological Trauma: Theory, Research, Practice, and Policy, 12(S1), S17.

- Mihailescu, M., & Neiterman, E. (2019). A scoping review of the literature on the current mental health status of physicians and physicians in training in North America. BMC Public Health, 19(1), 1–8.

America's mental health issue has worsened, even as its capacity to tackle its traditional killers - heart disease and cancer - has improved. Suicide and accidental injury fatalities, including drug overdose, have increased in recent years, lagging behind life expectancy declines.

Fewer specialists

Mental health specialists, especially psychologists and psychiatrists, are in short supply in the United States. In the Netherlands and Sweden, more than 90% of primary care offices include mental health experts on their staff (Alang, Sirry M, 2019).

Economic Reason

Economic devastation is a major concern for mental-health professionals. Suicide and drug abuse are strongly linked to economic turmoil, according to research. Suicide rates rose by 1.6% for every basis point that the unemployment rate went up during the Great Recession, which started in late 2007.

The Pandemic

The demand for accessible, culturally accepting mental health support services has never been greater. Aberrant mental health treatment in America was already failing before the epidemic(Blanchflower & Bryson, 2021). The system is repressive against persons of colour and minority gender identities. The psychiatric establishment has long denied oppressed groups any control over their mental health treatment. Cost exorbitant, scarce, and coercive.

Social Discrimination

White depressed adolescents were more likely than Asian depressed children to obtain mental health care. Native American or  multiracial, and Black children with depression were most likely to get non-specialty mental health treatment in schools. The school infrastructure has to be preserved and adequate to foster healthier communities and better assist children of colour who may only get mental health care in educational settings.

Modern Lifestyle 

Technology has a major influence on people's mental and physical health. Excessive reliance on contemporary technology may lead to psychological disorders including distraction, immediate pleasure, narcissism, and even sadness(Mihailescu & Neiterman, 2019). But by balancing online and offline social contacts, managing screen time, and moving ahead, anyone can keep overall mental health in check.



2.  IDENTIFY and then FULLY DISCUSS five (5) reasons why incidence of mental illness is higher among members of minority groups and the poor in America.

Lack of resources 

Mental health treatment was already out of reach for many Americans before the coronavirus outbreak. The paucity of mental health specialists, high costs, and lack of insurance coverage make it difficult for those with mental illnesses to get help. In 2016, 11.8 million Americans needed mental health care but couldn't afford them. 11 More over 40% of persons with a mental illness got treatment in 2016, whereas just 1 in 5 had a drug use issue in 2017(Reinert et al., 2021).

Lack of insurance coverage 

For those without insurance, the expenses of mental health care are prohibitive. Notably, non-Hispanic whites are more likely than Hispanic or Latinx Americans, American Indians, and Alaska Natives to be uninsured. Even people with insurance may have trouble getting mental health treatments. 

Societal Issues

In today's world of racial inequality, marginalisation, repression, and violence towards Black and African Americans has grown into systemic, institutional, and individual racism, which fosters a culture of distrust and poverty(Blanchflower & Bryson, 2021). Individual traumas (uncertainty, solitude, sadness from financial or personal losses), police violence and its idolization in the media, and contentious political discourse add layers of difficulty for people to cope.

Stigma 

Every culture views mental health differently. Mental health is becoming more stigmatised, and many people consider it a weakness to conceal(Alang, Sirry M, 2019). This might make it difficult to open up and seek for support.

Communal Aid

Cultural influences may influence how much family and community assistance someone receives for mental health. Due to stigma, minorities are often left to seek mental health care alone.



References

Alang, Sirry M. (2019). Mental health care among blacks in America: Confronting racism and constructing solutions. Health Services Research, 54(2), 346–355.

Blanchflower, D. G., & Bryson, A. (2021). Biden, Covid and mental health in America. National Bureau of Economic Research.

Fitzpatrick, K. M., Harris, C., & Drawve, G. (2020). Fear of COVID19 and the mental health consequences in America. Psychological Trauma: Theory, Research, Practice, and Policy, 12(S1), S17.

Mihailescu, M., & Neiterman, E. (2019). A scoping review of the literature on the current mental health status of physicians and physiciansintraining in North America. BMC Public Health, 19(1), 1–8.

Reinert, M., Fritze, D., & Nguyen, T. (2021). The State of Mental Health in America 2022.