Mental Health, Substance Abuse, and Suicidal Ideation during COVID-19
Throughout these past months of uncertainty, the rise of mental health issues has become overwhelming. As a result of the pandemic, behavioral health has finally begun to get the attention it deserves. An abundant amount of individuals are impacted by COVID-19, whether it be their physical or emotional well-being.
The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has recently published their latest study. It shows the increased mental health conditions, substance abuse tendencies, and suicidal ideation due to the current state of the world. This analysis exposes the underlying inequity of the current behavioral health system. “Mental health conditions are disproportionately affecting specific populations, especially young adults, Hispanic persons, black persons, essential workers, unpaid caregivers for adults, and those receiving treatment for preexisting psychiatric conditions.”
Communities with lesser access to support have clearly been hit the hardest by this pandemic. Increased anxiety and trauma directly related to COVID-19 has overwhelmed the system. While an unfortunate reality, the realization of this inequality has raised awareness towards the mission to provide the best quality behavioral healthcare options for everyone affected, not just those who can afford it.
Communities with lesser access to support have clearly been hit the hardest by this pandemic, as increased anxiety and trauma directly related to COVID-19 has overwhelmed the system. While an unfortunate reality, the realization of this inequality has raised awareness towards the mission to provide the best quality behavioral healthcare options for everyone affected, not just those who can afford it.
This study reports, "identification of populations at increased risk for psychological distress and unhealthy coping can inform policies to address health inequity, including increasing access to resources for clinical diagnoses and treatment options. Expanded use of telehealth, an effective means of delivering treatment for mental health conditions, including depression, substance use disorder, and suicidal ideation, might reduce COVID-19-related mental health consequences.”
Mental health has always mattered. Due to the dire circumstances of COVID-19 behavioral healthcare has come to the forefront of the public’s attention. If you or a loved one is suffering from mental health issues or increased pressures due to the pandemic, our clinicians are available to help. Call our main number at 844-4-ACENDA (844-422-3632 x9500) for more information. Learn more about our Outpatient and Recovery services.
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