Survey Reveals U.S. Mental Health and Substance Use Crisis

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The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration has released the results of their 2021 drug use and health survey. Results confirmed that the U.S. has both a mental health and substance crisis and most individuals are not receiving treatment for their conditions.

Here are some key findings from the 2021 report:

• Nearly 1 in 4 adults aged 18 and older, and 1 in 3 among adults aged 18-25, had a mental illness
• 5% of the population met the criteria for having a drug use and substance use disorder (SUD)
• 94% of people aged 12 or older with a SUD didn’t receive treatment
• 3 million adults aged 18 and older had serious thoughts of suicide

The pandemic and the current economic uncertainty have helped in impacting Americans’ mental health and substance use.

Get Help

The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline has a new 988 dialing code for anyone experiencing mental health-related distress, including thoughts of suicide, mental health, or substance use. Individuals can also reach out to their doctor or a mental health professional if they have concerns. Assistance may also be available through their employer if they offer an Employee Assistance Program (EAP).

Download the bulletin for more details.

Additional Resource

988 Mental Health Flyer

This blog is intended to be a compilation of information and resources pulled from federal, state, and local agencies. This is not intended to be legal advice. For up to the minute information and guidance on COVID-19, please follow the guidelines of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and your local health organizations.