In recent years, the conversation around mental health has gained significant momentum. More and more people are beginning to understand the importance of mental well-being as an integral part of overall health.
Yet, despite this growing awareness, access to mental health services remains a critical issue. Mental health services are not just a luxury; they are essential for fostering a healthy society. Let’s explore why these services are so vital.
Scott Allison Johnson, LCSW works as a mental health therapist for the Mainline Health Warren Medical Clinic and has a diverse population case load. She says that she loves “helping people help themselves, to leave in a better mental health space than when they walked in my door.” She is very proactive with her patients and pushes them to take action within themselves to heal or overcome the struggles they face. Scott Allison understands that mental health plays a huge role in day-to-day living and how it can impact someone’s life. She encourages positivity and for her patients to become more informed on mental health and how it can impact their life.
Understanding Mental Health
Mental health encompasses our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act, influencing our ability to handle stress, relate to others, and make choices. Mental health is crucial at every stage of life, from childhood and adolescence through adulthood. However, many people struggle with mental health issues at some point in their lives. According to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control), roughly 1 in 5 people are currently living with some type of mental health disorder.
The Impact of Mental Health Issues
Mental health issues, if left untreated, can have severe consequences. They can lead to diminished quality of life, strained relationships, and a decreased ability to function in day-to-day activities. Conditions such as depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder can impair an individual’s capacity to work, attend school, and maintain personal relationships. In extreme cases, untreated mental health issues can lead to self-harm or suicide.
Moreover, mental health issues don’t just affect the individual; they have a ripple effect on families, communities, and society as a whole. The economic burden is substantial, with lost productivity, increased healthcare costs, and social services expenditure. According to the National Library of Medicine, mental health disorders will cost the global economy $16 trillion by 2030, making the economic output loss related to mental disorders comparable to that of cardiovascular diseases, and higher than that of cancer, chronic respiratory diseases, and diabetes.
The Benefits of Mental Health Services
Mental health services provide crucial support for individuals struggling with mental health issues. These services include therapy, counseling, medication management, and support groups, among others. Here are some of the key benefits:
Early Intervention and Prevention: Early access to mental health services can prevent issues from escalating. By addressing problems before they become severe, individuals can avoid long-term consequences and improve their prognosis.
Improved Quality of Life: Effective mental health treatment can significantly enhance an individual’s quality of life. It helps people manage their symptoms, leading to better emotional stability, improved relationships, and greater productivity.
Support and Understanding: Mental health professionals provide a non-judgmental space for individuals to express their thoughts and feelings. This support is invaluable for people who may feel isolated or misunderstood.
Crisis Intervention: Mental health services are crucial during times of crisis. Immediate intervention can prevent harm and provide the necessary support to navigate through critical moments safely.
Stigma Reduction: Access to mental health services helps normalize seeking help for mental health issues. This can reduce the stigma associated with mental illness, encouraging more people to seek the help they need.
Seeking mental health services should not be frowned upon or discouraged. Offering mental health services can help reduce stigma by encouraging and empowering individuals to want to seek help. Becca Woodall, LCSW says that “one of the greatest joys I have in working in this field is getting to have a window seat to watch my clients realize how strong, loved, and valued they truly are.” Becca works as a mental health therapist at Mainline Health UAM Behavioral Health Clinic, located on the University of Arkansas at Monticello campus. Becca works closely with students to help encourage positivity and offers uplifting therapy sessions to plant that seed of growth.
Challenges in Accessing Mental Health Services
Despite the clear benefits, there are significant barriers to accessing mental health services:
Stigma: Societal stigma surrounding mental health can discourage individuals from seeking help. Many people fear being labeled or judged, which can lead to reluctance in pursuing treatment.
Cost: Mental health services can be expensive, and insurance coverage is often inadequate. This financial barrier prevents many individuals from accessing the care they need.
Availability: There is a shortage of mental health professionals, particularly in rural and underserved areas. This lack of availability makes it difficult for many people to receive timely care.
Awareness: Many people are not aware of the mental health services available to them. Increasing public awareness about these resources is crucial for improving access.
Having access to care is a huge barrier for mental health, especially in rural and underserved areas. Mainline Health is making strides to help overcome this obstacle by offering mental health services for everyone and all ages. One program in particular is the Maternal Health program offered at Mainline Health Women’s Clinic. Nicole Schenk, LMSW is a mental health therapist as part of the Women’s Clinic team and offers services for new moms who experience things like perinatal/postpartum anxiety or depression. Nicole Schenk says that “being an outlet for women that feel as though they don’t have anyone else to go to and seeing them make goals for themselves and achieve those goals over time has such a rewarding feeling.” Nicole is a strong advocate for her patients and recognizes the need for maternal mental health services in the small and rural area of Southeast Arkansas.
The Way Forward
To address these challenges, we need a multifaceted approach:
Public Education: Increasing awareness about mental health and the availability of services can help reduce stigma and encourage more people to seek help.
Policy Changes: Governments should prioritize mental health by increasing funding, improving insurance coverage, and ensuring mental health services are integrated into primary healthcare.
Training and Recruitment: Expanding training programs for mental health professionals and incentivizing work in underserved areas can help address the shortage of providers.
Community Support: Strengthening community support systems, such as support groups and outreach programs, can provide additional resources for those in need.
Mental Health at Mainline
At Mainline Health Systems, Inc. we are hopeful that we can make a positive impact on those who struggle with mental health issues by being proactive in awareness, offering services geared towards specific needs of the populations we serve, and improving our efforts to strengthen community support. Mental health services are a cornerstone of a healthy society. They provide essential support to individuals, improve quality of life, and contribute to the overall well-being of communities. By addressing the barriers to accessing these services, we can create a more inclusive and supportive environment for everyone. Mental health matters, and it's time we ensure that everyone has the opportunity to thrive.