The United States’ mental health crisis is a pressing issue that demands our attention. In a recent article published by The Guardian, Robert Reich highlights the alarming suicide rate, which is currently at its highest since 1941. Amidst this crisis, Reich emphasizes the need for a stronger safety net and a sincere examination of the larger causes contributing to this epidemic.
A panel of medical experts has called for doctors to screen all patients under the age of 65, including children and teenagers, for anxiety disorders. According to Lori Pbert, a clinical psychologist and professor at the University of Massachusetts Chan School of Medicine, mental health disorders have reached a crisis point in the United States.
The New York Times published an article shedding light on a condition known as persistent depressive disorder (PDD), which an estimated 2% of adults in the United States have experienced in the past year. Shockingly, nearly 50,000 people in the United States lost their lives to suicide last year, based on a preliminary tally from the National Center for Health Statistics. This number may rise even higher upon final count. The current suicide rate stands at 14.3 deaths per 100,000 Americans, marking the highest level since 1941.
While men aged 75 and older had the highest suicide rate last year, nearly 44 per 100,000 people, it is essential to recognize that men are four times more likely to die by suicide than women. Suicide rates are also significantly higher among Native Americans compared to the rest of the population. However, it is worth noting that suicide rates for children aged 10 to 14 have reduced by 18%, and rates for those aged 15 to 24 have decreased by 9%, returning to pre-pandemic levels.
The critical question arises: what is causing this alarming surge in anxiety, depression, and suicide rates in the United States? Robert Reich raises the possibility that these emotional struggles are rational responses to a society that is becoming increasingly disordered. Factors such as rising housing costs, job and income insecurity, attacks on democracy, and the looming climate crisis have undoubtedly contributed to the general sense of anxiety and despair experienced by many.
As the mental health crisis continues to grow, another significant concern arises – the demand for mental health care exceeds the capacity of psychologists. NPR reports that psychologists are struggling to meet this growing demand, leaving many individuals without access to essential mental health services. This issue further exacerbates the gravity of the situation and emphasizes the urgent need for action and support.
Addressing the United States’ mental health crisis requires a comprehensive and multidimensional approach. In addition to strengthening the safety net and expanding access to mental health services, confronting the societal issues that contribute to anxiety and despair is essential. By addressing rising housing costs, job and income insecurity, attacks on democracy, and the climate crisis, we can begin to tackle the root causes of this crisis.
It is time for a united effort to prioritize mental health and well-being, fostering a society that supports and uplifts its individuals. Only through collective action and open dialogue can we combat the United States’ mental health crisis and instigate meaningful change for the future.
