Millions of people in the U.S. are affected by mental illness each year. It’s important to measure how common mental illness is so we can understand the physical, social and financial impact – and show that no one is alone. The numbers are also powerful tools for raising public awareness, stigma-busting and advocating for better health care.
In my business/profession, my team and I have seen more “mental” issues in the last year than ever before. Below are some fast facts:
- 1 in 5 U.S. adults experience mental illness each year
- 1 in 20 U.S. adults experience serious mental illness each year
- 1 in 6 U.S. youth aged 6-17 experience as mental health disorder each year
- 50% of all lifetime mental illness begins by age 14, and 75% by age 24
- Suicide is the 2nd leading cause of death among people aged 10-14
- One in 5 adults experienced mental illness last year
More facts: Texas ranks 50 out of 50 states to access for care.
Texas operates 39 local mental health community health services. (In the San Antonio area, we recommend only 3 Behavior hospitals that do a good service helping those with behavioral issues). We have some excellent behavioral facilities outside of San Antonio.
One can be detained up to 48 hours after arriving unless a judge signs an order of “protective” custody. The most common mental illness in America is:
Anxiety disorder, major depression, & bi-polar
Question asked is: What can get you or a loved one sent to a mental hospital?
If high risk of serious harm to themselves or others and need to be in a place of safety.
One organization for those needing to reach out for help is NAMI – National Alliance on Mental Illness in San Antonio. NAMI provides free peer-led mental health education classes and support groups for individuals living with a mental health condition and their loved ones. NAMI provides advocacy, education, support and public awareness so that all individuals & families affected by mental illness can build better lives. NAMI offers FREE training of six core modules.
PTSD is also common among civilians not just our military men & women. For those who are veterans/spouses of a veteran, we have VA resources we can provide to those needing information and/or care.
This is a topic that needs to be addressed as it is a “crisis” in America.
Brenda Dever-Armstrong, CEO/Owner/CSA/Geriatric Advisor
The Next Horizon Seniors & Military (Veterans/Spouses) Advocate/Resources/Services/Locator (TX & nationwide)
Bus Ph: 210-275-3002
Email: deverb@att.net
www.nexthorizonlocators.com