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The state of mental health in America is precarious. Too many Americans are experiencing mental health crises without the support they need. For people aged 10-34, suicide is a leading cause of death.
In 2020 alone, the U.S. had one suicide death every 11 minutes. Nearly 20 percent of American adults experienced mental illness in 2019.
Mental healthcare is as crucial as physical healthcare. While physicians have started promoting mental health as a critical part of overall wellness, we’re still falling short. We need to change this reality. There is hope.
What is being done to close mental health access gaps in America?
Did you know there’s a new 3-digit number people can call to get immediate mental health support? 988 is a new nationwide number people can dial to reach help, whether it’s the person in the midst of a mental health crisis or someone worried about a loved one.
Listen as Dr. G and his guest, Sandra Manley-Eichler, LCSW, with Linden Oaks Behavioral Health, talk about this and other ways to close the mental health access gaps in America.
Guest
Myths vs. Facts
“Mental health problems don’t affect me.” – Myth
Mental health affects everybody.
“Children don’t experience mental health problems.” – Myth
Even very young children can show early signs of mental health concerns.
“People with mental health problems are violent and unpredictable.” – Myth
There is no direct causal relationship between mental illness and violence.
“People with mental health needs, even those who are managing their mental illness, cannot tolerate the stress of holding down a job.” – Myth
Work is, for many people, an escape. It provides a sense of fulfillment. People can and do manage mental illness and work.
“Personality weakness or character flaws cause mental health problems. People with mental health problems can snap out of it if they try hard enough.” – Myth
Mental health problems are not a sign of weakness or a character flaw.
“There is no hope for people with mental health problems. Once a friend or family member develops mental health problems, he or she will never recover.” – Myth
There is always hope for recovery.
“Therapy and self-help are a waste of time. Why bother when you can just take a pill?” – Myth
Therapy alone can help people recover from mental health problems. Medication can help, but therapy does too.
“I can’t do anything for a person with a mental health problem.” – Myth
Friends and family can make a big difference for someone with a mental health problem.
“Prevention doesn’t work. It is impossible to prevent mental illnesses.” – Both
A lot of mental illness is dictated by genetics. Some illnesses aren’t preventable. Prevention is possible, and starts by validating young children and adolescents and providing the resources and support for mental health.
Listener healthy OH-YEAH!
“I love exercising in the pool, because it is easier on the body and the water gives resistance to get more bang for your buck.” – B.B.
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