In
America, mental health issues often carry a negative stigma that can
interfere with a person’s ability to seek out and receive the
appropriate treatment. Although many people view mental health issues
as an individual problem, the unfortunate truth is that mental health
conditions impact all of society. From the workplace to social
relationships, the consequences can be dire when a person is unable
to treat their mental health condition. While there is no easy
answer, there are several things that can be done to fix mental
health issues in America through a combination of understanding,
education and financial support that will ensure everyone has access
to mental health services.
Mental
Health Issues in the Headlines
Recent
headlines have demonstrated the serious consequences that can occur
when individuals are left to cope alone with untreated mental
illness. As more information comes available regarding the recent
tragedy of the Washington Navy Yard shooting, it has been discovered
that the shooter, Aaron Alexis, had a long history of untreated
mental illness. This included serious symptoms such as paranoia,
insomnia and hearing voices. Tragically, his mental health condition
led to him taking the lives of many other people who had no idea of
the hostility that was brewing. While there is no excuse for his
actions, knowing that Alexis struggled with violent thoughts and
hallucinations can explain his lack of self-control.
Reasons
Why People Forgo Treatment
Sadly,
many people decide to forgo treatment even when they suspect they
have a mental health disorder. This can be due to one or a
combination of reasons. In addition to concern regarding the negative
view of society that pervades discussions of mental illness, many
people who struggle to cope with a mental health condition cannot
afford to seek treatment or follow up on filling their medicine
prescriptions. According to a study conducted in 2011 by the
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, being
unable to afford the cost of treatment was the primary reason why
people left their mental health condition unchecked.
Being
financially unable to seek treatment may seem as though it is a
problem only associated with the very poor; however, the issue of
affordability goes much deeper than one’s bank account. The study
also showed that those who did have insurance still could not always
afford their treatment, and some people also struggled with finding a
provider within their network. To compound the issue, many people
with mental health issues on their medical record have found it
virtually impossible to be accepted for a health insurance plan.
How
the Affordable Care Act Plays a Role
After
decades of negativity surrounding mental health treatment, it is
finally becoming a recognized public health issue that is being
addressed by federal, state and local levels of government and
community involvement. One of the main ways that access to mental
health services is being addressed is through the Affordable Care
Act. Currently, health insurance companies are no longer allowed to
deny a person a policy based upon pre-existing conditions.
Additionally, 2014 heralds the beginning of an era when health
insurance companies must also pay for mental health services.
As
the nation moves forward toward a new beginning where health care
coverage will be more accessible to everyone, it is important to stop
the debate regarding the negative connotations of the plan. Instead,
it is important to recognize the benefits that come with treating
some of the most vulnerable members of the population who may be
struggling with a mental health condition that with treatment, can be
overcome so they can be a positive contributor to society as well as
their families.
Derek is currently blogging for Aligned Signs, a site that helps connect like minded people by
using astrology, psychology, and personality tests. When he is not
blogging, he enjoys relaxing with his girlfriend and catching up on
their favorite movies.
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