Mental Illness Is on the Rise

Millions in the United States are affected by mental health conditions each year.

Learn why.

The prevalence of mental and emotional distress is on the rise in the United States, as highlighted by the World Health Organization (WHO). This trend is underscored by statistics indicating that a significant portion of the adult population, around 19.86%, encountered a mental illness in 2019, as reported by Mental Health America (MHA). This figure translates to approximately 50 million individuals. Notably, data curated by MHA also signals an upward trajectory of depression among young individuals.

Social Media Use

The prevalence of social media adoption is substantial, with approximately 72% of Americans engaging with these platforms, as indicated by data from the Pew Research Center. While these online networks have facilitated connections with loved ones, emerging research underscores the potential adverse effects on mental health. Unhealthy behaviors associated with social media use include excessive self-comparison and the experience of “fear of missing out” (FOMO), as identified by MHA.

Numerous studies have established a connection between social media usage and unfavorable mental health outcomes, particularly among the younger demographic. A systematic review conducted in 2019 and published in the International Journal of Adolescence and Youth revealed a correlation between prolonged social media engagement and heightened levels of depression, anxiety, and psychological distress.

Interestingly, research suggests that curtailing social media activity could yield the opposite results. A 2018 study conducted by the University of Pennsylvania and published in the Journal of Social and Clinical Psychology demonstrated that college students who restricted their social media use for three weeks witnessed notable reductions in feelings of loneliness and depression compared to those with unrestricted access.

Moreover, specific social media platforms—such as Facebook, Snapchat, and YouTube—have exhibited associations with elevated self-reported depressive symptoms, according to a 2021 study featured in JAMA, which surveyed more than 5,000 individuals.

COVID-19 Pandemic

The emergence of the pandemic has also contributed to a surge in individuals grappling with mental health challenges.

Preceding the COVID-19 outbreak, research indicated that the rate of serious psychological distress (SPD) among U.S. adults consistently hovered between 3% and 4%—equating to over 8 million Americans—as outlined in a 2022 study published in JAMA Network Open. On a global scale, the World Health Organization (WHO) reported a 25% increase in anxiety and depression during the pandemic’s initial year.

Within the United States alone, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMSHA) revealed that 1 in 5 adults reported a pronounced negative impact on their mental well-being due to the pandemic. Among the factors cited, social isolation emerged as a prominent concern, a sentiment echoed by a 2021 study published in the journal Nature, which underscored the adverse psychological repercussions of social isolation.

This isolation was exacerbated by limitations on work, social interactions, and access to support systems, according to the WHO. Additional stressors experienced during the pandemic encompassed concerns related to infection, the loss of loved ones, and financial worries—challenges outlined by the WHO that compounded the strain on mental health.

Isolation and Loneliness

Isolation can induce feelings of loneliness, which, according to the National Institute on Aging (NIA), is intricately linked to an array of physical and mental conditions, including depression and anxiety. The pandemic amplified this sense of isolation, as confirmed by a 2017 study in Public Policy & Aging Report, which highlighted the growing isolation within the general population, attributed to factors such as reduced community engagement and fewer instances of marriage and parenthood.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) point out that older individuals face an elevated risk of loneliness, considering their propensity to contend with circumstances like living alone, bereavement, and managing chronic illnesses. Notably, social isolation among older adults is correlated with heightened rates of depression, anxiety, and even suicide.

While a substantial body of research has explored loneliness in older adults, it’s essential to acknowledge that young adults also grapple with this issue. A 2021 study published in Frontiers in Psychology revealed that individuals aged 16 to 24 in Western countries, prior to the pandemic, experienced higher levels of loneliness than their older counterparts—a phenomenon attributed in part to their interaction with social media, according to the researchers.

Furthermore, specific populations, such as immigrants and LGBTQ+ individuals, face an elevated risk of experiencing loneliness, according to the CDC.

Lack of Access to Care Exacerbates the Problem

As the demand for psychiatric care surges alongside the rise in mental health conditions, accessing such care poses challenges. Notably, the percentage of individuals with a mental illness who express an unmet need for treatment has consistently increased since 2011, as outlined by MHA. Moreover, over half of adults grappling with mental health issues remain untreated.

Despite the availability of more affordable healthcare options through the Affordable Care Act (ACA), around 11% of adults and youth with mental illness remain uninsured, as per MHA. This data highlights a persistent gap in coverage.

Adding to the complexity, the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) reports that over 25 million rural Americans reside in areas experiencing a shortage of mental health professionals. This dearth of professionals means that even if individuals possess the means to access professional help, the absence of available services becomes a significant barrier. Thus, while insurance might cover mental health services, its value diminishes when services are unavailable.

How To Get Help

If you find yourself in need of mental health assistance, taking the step to reach out to a healthcare provider is a constructive starting point. They can furnish you with information about local resources and offer a referral to a specialized mental health professional if required.

The U.S. Department of Health & Human Services mental health website is a valuable resource for accessing contact numbers and service locators to guide you towards the help you require. Moreover, SAMHSA’s National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357) can connect you with local treatment centers, support groups, and community-based organizations.

In the digital age, online therapy services are gaining popularity, offering an economical and convenient avenue for receiving care. However, it’s crucial to note that complex psychiatric conditions may necessitate in-person assistance. For those without insurance, community clinics often provide mental health services on a sliding fee scale based on income.

If you’re seeking a provider attuned to your cultural context or one trained to address your unique cultural needs, several options are available. Digital mental health platforms like Hurdle and Ayana Therapy are tailored to diverse communities, providing culturally sensitive approaches. Resources such as Psychology Today’s therapist directory and MHA enable you to narrow your search by specific characteristics, such as language and sexuality.

Remember, if you or someone you know is in crisis, immediate support is accessible. Dial or text 988, or visit 988lifeline.org for a confidential and toll-free lifeline that operates around the clock.

Prioritizing your mental well-being remains paramount, particularly given the myriad factors contributing to the global surge in mental health issues. In light of this, if you harbor any concerns about your mental health, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. Should you encounter difficulty locating appropriate resources, lean on a trusted friend or family member for assistance—the presence of a supportive network can make all the difference.

A Quick Review

The prevalence of mental illness in the United States has escalated, affecting approximately 20% of the population. Contributing factors to this increase encompass the influence of social media, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, and evolving societal dynamics that have led to smaller family units and reduced community engagement. This mental health crisis is particularly pronounced among both older individuals and the youngest adults, creating a multifaceted challenge exacerbated by disparities in health insurance coverage and access to healthcare providers, dependent on geographical location.

However, there exist viable options for individuals seeking support for their mental well-being. More cost-effective online services, community clinics offering sliding fee scale mental health services, and dedicated mental health websites that provide guidance and resources are available to address varying needs. These avenues can help navigate the complex landscape of mental health assistance, offering accessible pathways for those in need of support.