The end of 2020 is right around the corner, which means that we have a better understanding of this year’s mental health statistics. And that’s important, because 2020 brought a lot of new challenges that many of us were unsure how to face. New mental health statistics from 2020 show that more and more people are struggling with mental health issues this year, and that means mental health treatment is especially important right now.
In this article, you will learn about the differences in the mental health statistics from 2019 compared to 2020 and figure out if you are one of the millions of people who could benefit from mental health and addiction treatment before the end of 2020.
Mental Health Statistics From 2019 to 2020: What Changed?
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, over 51 million adults aged 18 and older reported having one or more mental health conditions in 2019. Additionally, studies through the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration show that the rate of substance use disorders increased from 2018 to 2019. But does this mean that the substance use disorders and mental health statistics continued to climb into 2020?
The 2020 mental health statistics confirm this fear. Even before the COVID-19 pandemic hit, studies showed that both substance use disorders and mental illnesses were becoming more of a problem in the United States. Then, once the pandemic reached our country, mental health conditions only worsened.
There are many reasons why the mental health statistics from 2020 show higher figures than past years. The coronavirus has caused physical, financial, social, and emotional strain. As a result, the rates of certain mental health conditions have increased by up to 93 percent. Furthermore, with the stress of the holidays near, we know that this percentage will most likely go up.
Although these studies show that more people are in need of mental health treatment now than ever before, the truth of the matter is that people aren’t sure how to find the right mental health facilities for their mental illnesses during the pandemic. But without the right treatment, the prevalence of mental health conditions—and their dangerous symptoms—will continue to rise.
Common Mental Illnesses in 2020
Interestingly, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) share that the COVID-19 pandemic has specifically increased the risk of using drugs or alcohol. This is especially true for those who have co-occurring mental health conditions and substance use disorders, as these are closely related.
Turning to drugs or alcohol is a common unhealthy coping mechanism to numb painful mental health symptoms. This is one of the biggest indicators of addiction and underlying conditions. If you find yourself drinking or using more when you experience symptoms of depression, for example, you might have a substance use disorder and a mental health condition.
In addition to substance use disorders, common mental health conditions that people are struggling with in 2020 include:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Post-traumatic stress disorder
- Bipolar disorder
- Suicidal thoughts or actions
The symptoms for all of these mental health conditions can be painful and even deadly. However, getting a diagnosis and the right treatment for these conditions is not as common as it should be. In fact, approximately 650,000 adults aged 18 and over in Louisiana have symptoms of mental health conditions but are never diagnosed.
This is why it is so important to understand mental health statistics—mental illnesses and substance use disorders are much more common in Louisiana and throughout the country than people might think with over 20 percent of adults experiencing symptoms. Once you understand your own risks of developing mental illnesses this year, the next step is knowing how treatment could change your future.
Treatment for Mental Health Conditions
Though 2020 has brought many challenges and increased rates of mental health conditions, it has also come with new and effective treatments. These treatments are meant to help improve your emotional, behavioral, and mental health.
Mental health facilities in Louisiana have mental health and addiction programs that are made to help you feel healthy and stay safe. Some programs that might help you today include:
- Drug and alcohol detox—The first step in substance abuse treatment is to safely detox from any addictive substances. These include alcohol and drugs, such as opioids or other prescription medications. Detox can be challenging because it comes with intense withdrawal symptoms. In treatment, however, you will receive 24/7 monitoring to make sure that you are physically and emotionally ready to begin the journey of sobriety.
- Adult psychiatric services—As 2020 studies show, mental health is a significant issue for adults in Louisiana. In an adult psychiatric treatment program, you can expect to receive treatment for conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, phobias, and more. Services in this program include group therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, medication management, and recreational therapy. With a combination of therapies and supports like these, your chances of recovery greatly increase.
- Crisis care—Crisis care services is particularly important if you are currently experiencing thoughts of harming yourself. Mental health statistics show that suicidal thoughts or attempts are more likely in 2020. For immediate assistance, contact the Suicide Prevention Lifeline, local authorities, or inquire after crisis care at mental health facilities near you.
- Dual diagnosis treatment—This program specifically helps people who struggle with a substance use disorder and one or more mental illness. It is important to seek treatment for all of your conditions because the symptoms of one simply make the symptoms of the others worsen. In dual diagnosis treatment, you will participate in a 12-step program, relapse prevention, and education on mental illnesses. Additionally, you will have access to psychiatric assessments, group psycho-therapy, family education, nutritional training, and community support for after you complete the program.
If you are ready to find safe, supportive treatment to combat the mental health strain of 2020, there are mental health facilities near you that are ready to help. Together, we can lessen the severity of mental health statistics and work toward healthier, happier years.
Find Mental Health Facilities Near You
One of the best ways to improve mental health statistics for next year is to find treatment near you. Luckily, the staff at the Baton Rouge Behavioral Hospital is prepared to help you toward recovery in 2020 and all years to come.
In addition to the treatments mentioned above, the services you will receive at the Baton Rouge Behavioral Hospital are made uniquely for your needs. If you have further questions on our 2020 substance use and mental health treatment, give us a call at 225-300-8470 or complete our confidential contact form today.
