mental health struggles essay

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Mental Health Essay

Introduction

Mental health, often overshadowed by its physical counterpart, is an intricate and essential aspect of human existence. It envelops our emotions, psychological state, and social well-being, shaping our thoughts, behaviors, and interactions. With the complexities of modern life—constant connectivity, societal pressures, personal expectations, and the frenzied pace of technological advancements—mental well-being has become increasingly paramount. Historically, conversations around this topic have been hushed, shrouded in stigma and misunderstanding. However, as the curtains of misconception slowly lift, we find ourselves in an era where discussions about mental health are not only welcomed but are also seen as vital. Recognizing and addressing the nuances of our mental state is not merely about managing disorders; it's about understanding the essence of who we are, how we process the world around us, and how we navigate the myriad challenges thrown our way. This essay aims to delve deep into the realm of mental health, shedding light on its importance, the potential consequences of neglect, and the spectrum of mental disorders that many face in silence.

Importance of Mental Health

Mental health plays a pivotal role in determining how individuals think, feel, and act. It influences our decision-making processes, stress management techniques, interpersonal relationships, and even our physical health. A well-tuned mental state boosts productivity, creativity, and the intrinsic sense of self-worth, laying the groundwork for a fulfilling life.

Negative Impact of Mental Health

Neglecting mental health, on the other hand, can lead to severe consequences. Reduced productivity, strained relationships, substance abuse, physical health issues like heart diseases, and even reduced life expectancy are just some of the repercussions of poor mental health. It not only affects the individual in question but also has a ripple effect on their community, workplace, and family.

Mental Disorders: Types and Prevalence

Mental disorders are varied and can range from anxiety and mood disorders like depression and bipolar disorder to more severe conditions such as schizophrenia.

• Depression: Characterized by persistent sadness, lack of interest in activities, and fatigue.
• Anxiety Disorders: Encompass conditions like generalized anxiety disorder, panic attacks, and specific phobias.
• Schizophrenia: A complex disorder affecting a person's ability to think, feel, and behave clearly.

The prevalence of these disorders has been on the rise, underscoring the need for comprehensive mental health initiatives and awareness campaigns.

Understanding Mental Health and Its Importance

Mental health is not merely the absence of disorders but encompasses emotional, psychological, and social well-being. Recognizing the signs of deteriorating mental health, like prolonged sadness, extreme mood fluctuations, or social withdrawal, is crucial. Understanding stems from awareness and education. Societal stigmas surrounding mental health have often deterred individuals from seeking help. Breaking these barriers, fostering open conversations, and ensuring access to mental health care are imperative steps.

Conclusion: Mental Health

Mental health, undeniably, is as significant as physical health, if not more. In an era where the stressors are myriad, from societal pressures to personal challenges, mental resilience and well-being are essential. Investing time and resources into mental health initiatives, and more importantly, nurturing a society that understands, respects, and prioritizes mental health is the need of the hour.

• World Leaders: Several influential personalities, from celebrities to sports stars, have openly discussed their mental health challenges, shedding light on the universality of these issues and the importance of addressing them.
• Workplaces: Progressive organizations are now incorporating mental health programs, recognizing the tangible benefits of a mentally healthy workforce, from increased productivity to enhanced creativity.
• Educational Institutions: Schools and colleges, witnessing the effects of stress and other mental health issues on students, are increasingly integrating counseling services and mental health education in their curriculum.

In weaving through the intricate tapestry of mental health, it becomes evident that it's an area that requires collective attention, understanding, and action.

  Short Essay about Mental Health

Mental health, an integral facet of human well-being, shapes our emotions, decisions, and daily interactions. Just as one would care for a sprained ankle or a fever, our minds too require attention and nurture. In today's bustling world, mental well-being is often put on the back burner, overshadowed by the immediate demands of life. Yet, its impact is pervasive, influencing our productivity, relationships, and overall quality of life.

Sadly, mental health issues have long been stigmatized, seen as a sign of weakness or dismissed as mere mood swings. However, they are as real and significant as any physical ailment. From anxiety to depression, these disorders have touched countless lives, often in silence due to societal taboos.

But change is on the horizon. As awareness grows, conversations are shifting from hushed whispers to open discussions, fostering understanding and support. Institutions, workplaces, and communities are increasingly acknowledging the importance of mental health, implementing programs, and offering resources.

In conclusion, mental health is not a peripheral concern but a central one, crucial to our holistic well-being. It's high time we prioritize it, eliminating stigma and fostering an environment where everyone feels supported in their mental health journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the primary focus of a mental health essay?

Answer: The primary focus of a mental health essay is to delve into the intricacies of mental well-being, its significance in our daily lives, the various challenges people face, and the broader societal implications. It aims to shed light on both the psychological and emotional aspects of mental health, often emphasizing the importance of understanding, empathy, and proactive care.

• How can writing an essay on mental health help raise awareness about its importance?

Answer: Writing an essay on mental health can effectively articulate the nuances and complexities of the topic, making it more accessible to a wider audience. By presenting facts, personal anecdotes, and research, the essay can demystify misconceptions, highlight the prevalence of mental health issues, and underscore the need for destigmatizing discussions around it. An impactful essay can ignite conversations, inspire action, and contribute to a more informed and empathetic society.

• What are some common topics covered in a mental health essay?

Answer: Common topics in a mental health essay might include the definition and importance of mental health, the connection between mental and physical well-being, various mental disorders and their symptoms, societal stigmas and misconceptions, the impact of modern life on mental health, and the significance of therapy and counseling. It may also delve into personal experiences, case studies, and the broader societal implications of neglecting mental health.

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My Mental Health Story: A Student Reflects on Her Recovery Journey

In honor of May being Mental Health Awareness Month, I want to share my story in the hope that it resonates with some of you. Hearing other peoples’ stories has been one of the strongest motivators in my recovery journey. Seeing other people be vulnerable has given me bravery to do so as well. So, I share what I have learned not from a place of having all the answers. Quite the opposite, in fact; I don’t really believe there are any concrete answers to confronting a mental health struggle. Each is unique and deserves to be treated that way. However, I do hope that in sharing my personal realizations, it resonates with someone and pushes them just one step closer to living their most authentic life — the life we all deserve to live.  

I have struggled with an eating disorder and anxiety for most of my teen and adult life. I was formally diagnosed (otherwise known as the time it became too obvious to hide from my parents and doctor) with anorexia nervosa and generalized anxiety disorder at the beginning of my junior year of high school. Under the careful care of my parents and my treatment team, I was able to keep things ~mostly~ under control. I stayed in school, continued playing sports, and participated in extracurricular activities. 

Then, I went away to college. Coming to Michigan, 10 hours away from my home in New York, I was entirely on my own for the first time in my life. And for the first time in my life, I felt free. Or, at least I thought I did. I was ecstatic to be at Michigan. It was my dream school and I was determined to make the best of it, leaving no opportunity unexplored. I threw myself into commitments left and right. Club rowing team, sorority, and a business club, piled on top of the full course load of classes I was taking. And all of that was in addition to merely existing as a freshman — navigating dorm life at Bursley, making friends, finding my place at a huge school. 

The thing is, I genuinely thought I was thriving. Getting involved, making great friends, and performing well in my classes is pretty much the best-case scenario for first semester freshman year. I couldn’t see that I was being crushed under an avalanche of essays, exams, club meetings, practices, and parties. Sleep was a luxury and self care was foreign. There was a battle being fought inside my head 24/7, a battle that most of the time I was losing. I was slowly disappearing. Barely held together by the anxiety driving me to chase perfection and an eating disorder to feel a sense of control amidst uncertainty run rampant. 

When I returned home for Thanksgiving, the first time since leaving in August, my parents saw through my facade of good grades, involvement, and fun stories. It was obvious I needed help. They wanted me to stay home. But there were only two weeks left of the semester. There was absolutely no way I was going to leave all of my hard work unfinished. I made a deal, if they let me return to Ann Arbor and finish the semester, I would seek treatment when I came home for winter break. They agreed. 

When I returned home I completed the intake process at The Renfrew Center for Eating Disorders. Then, I awaited their recommendation. 

Residential. 

A treatment center 4 hours away from my home, living with about 40 other women also working toward recovery. Days filled with therapy groups, one after another. I would be there for weeks, months even. 

A whirlwind of thoughts ran through my head…

I cannot miss school. I’ll fall behind and never be able to catch up. 

Your mind is exhausted, you barely finished this semester.

I have leadership positions in my club and my sorority, I can’t just abandon them. 

Someone else will have the opportunity to fulfill the position better than you can right now.

I’ll miss precious time with my friends. They will grow closer without me. 

You weren’t fully present with them. Your mind was constantly at war with itself.

I am stronger than this. I can do this on my own. 

Why are you so determined to be alone? Accept help, you need it desperately.

Other people have it so much worse than I do. Getting help would be selfish. 

You getting help does not make anyone else less worthy of getting help.

Perhaps your bravery will encourage someone else to do the same.

Nothing bad has happened to me. I haven’t hit rock bottom. 

Why can’t this be your rock bottom?

Is it not enough that you are fighting a battle inside your brain every second of every day?

Is it not enough that your weight has dropped to less than what it was when you were 10 years old?

Is it not enough that you are relentlessly freezing or that your hair is falling out in large clumps?

Is it not enough that you feel exhausted all the time or that you get dizzy when you stand up?

Is it not enough that you are in danger of going into cardiac arrest?

What more are you searching for?

It was the following statement, from my therapist, that finally got through to me: 

“Rock bottom is death, do you realize that? The only difference between where you are right now and rock bottom is that you still have a second chance.”

I agreed to go to residential treatment and accept the level of care that I needed, taking off the second semester of my freshman year. I arrived at the Renfrew Center in Philadelphia, bags packed without knowing how long I was staying, feeling terrified and alone. The road ahead of me was dauntingly long but I finally made the decision to put my needs first. Leaving school, no matter how painful right now, would allow me to return as more myself. Without an ongoing battle inside my head, I could be present with my friends, get the most out of my classes, and truly enjoy campus life. 

My recovery journey has been anything but smooth. In residential treatment I found support in the community of women fighting for the lives they deserved to live, just as I was. They welcomed me, inspired me, and gave me hope. In therapy I have confronted the most painful beliefs I had about myself, ones that had kept me paralyzed for years. Untangling my authentic self from my eating disorder, rewriting my narrative, learning to feel again. Creating a motivation that was internal. I gained the necessary skills to take recovery into the real world, into a life of true independence and freedom. 

Today, almost three years later, I am living my second chance. It is a fight I have vowed to never give up. 

The following is a collection of the most important things I have learned throughout my journey… 

• I am worthy of being helped. It is okay to ask for help. 

Aching for independence, this was not an easy realization. However, the more and more I let my eating disorder take over my thoughts, the less independent I became. Accepting help was the first step in regaining my independence and fighting for myself. At the time I saw it as a moment of weakness. Now, I see it only as a sign of strength. We are all worthy and deserving of help. Ask for it, accept it, let it move you forward. 

• I always have time for the things that are important to me. 

As high-achieving and driven students, I’m sure many of you can relate to the “not enough time” backtrack constantly playing in your thoughts. It’s not true. Yes, I acknowledge that time is a limited resource. And that we all have commitments. But you are in control of how you decide to spend your time. I’m not saying you can do everything; that is impossible. Rather, I am advocating for intentional decisions about your time. What nourishes you? What makes you feel alive and energized? If something truly matters, make time for it.

• Life isn’t black and white. The depth and richness of life exist in the gray. 

I was a perfectionist paralyzed by indecision. No matter how much research and consulting others I did, it was never enough. Yet the one person whose opinion I always seemed to neglect was my own. Why did I so readily trust the opinions of others (or the Internet) and not myself? One thing that helped me begin to rebuild trust with myself was to stop thinking about things as solely black and white, a right choice and a wrong choice. Instead, I had options and information. Information about myself and information about each option. All I could do was make the best choice given the information and options I had at the current moment. There is no way to make a “wrong” choice if you can think about each decision as an opportunity to learn more about yourself. 

• I write my own story. And how I narrate it matters. 

In untangling and rewriting my internal narrative, I have found that even the smallest shifts can make an incredible difference. I stopped saying things “happened to me.” I am the object of this sentence. A passive being in my own life. Instead, I say, “I lived through this.” I am the subject. I am active and empowered. I have agency. 

The way we think shapes our perception. And the way we think is dictated by the words we choose to narrate our lives. We have the power to change our thoughts by changing our narration. Narrate wisely.

Written by #UMSocial intern and Michigan Ross senior Keara Kotten

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311 Powerful Mental Health Topics to Write about & Essay Examples

Research studies show that nearly 25% of American adults may have a mental illness in any given year. That is why it is crucial for all of us to become aware of such issues.

We gathered 225 brilliant essay topics about mental health, paper examples and ideas that would fit for any kind of essay: argumentative, persuasive, discursive, and so on. So…

Let’s dive in!

🏆 Best Mental Health Topic Ideas & Paper Examples

👍 good essay topics about mental health, 💡 simple & easy mental health essay topics, 🎓 most interesting mental health topics to write about, 🔎 interesting topics to write about mental health, ✍️ mental health essay topics for college, ❓ research questions about mental health.

• A Mental Health Project This project will use a strength-based model, and as such, will focus on how the guidance and counseling practitioners can assist the target young people to collaborate with their peers, families, and the community with […]
• Mental Health Practice Placement However, many people believe that the theory does not offer or is not a reflection of the prevalent actions and complexity of the mental health problems in a population.
• Mental Health Counseling Admission Essay The decision to apply for the clinical counseling in mental health program was mainly influenced by an internship that I had at the Carter Center of Mental Health.
• The Impact of Mental Health on Society It is not to say that mental health patients lack the skills or expertise to fulfill the assigned tasks. Indeed, it is not only the individuals but also society on the whole that suffers from […]
• Mental Health Issues in the Wednesday Series The main essence of the plot is that the eldest child of the Addams family, a girl named Wednesday, is gloomy and gloomy.
• Importance of Mental Health Promotion in Society Mental health is an integral part of health which serves as the foundation for the well-being and effective functioning for a person and society.
• Social Media and Teenagers’ Mental Health This book highlights the impact of social media on adolescent mental health and offers several solutions to this problem. 1, 2020, pp.
• How Social Class Influences Mental Health After a thorough evaluation of class differences in mental health, it becomes clearer that people from the working classes face more problems with mental health in comparison to people from the middle class: downward drift, […]
• Code of Ethics for Mental Health Professions In the mental health profession, codes of ethics mainly address professional responsibilities, handling of clients, storage of clients’ information, and the relationships that should exist between the clients and the mental health workers.
• Therapy and Mental Health Counseling: Speech The scholars emphasize that, unlike medications, therapy is a journey that requires awareness and acceptance of the change to heal from stress and trauma.
• Mental Health Counseling Licensure and Certification in Florida The purpose of this paper is to analyze and compare the requirements and provisions for mental health counseling licensure and certification in Florida and discuss their impact on the public.
• Institutional vs. Community Care in Mental Health A review article by Wysocki et al.”Long-term services and supports for older adults: A review of home and community-based services versus institutional care is focused on the analysis of institutional care as opposed to home […]
• Interview With a Licensed Mental Health Counselor The interviewee acknowledged that burnout is a normal part of practice and anybody planning to become a licensed mental health counselor should be prepared to face burnout and deal with it in a manner that […]
• The Connection Between Poverty and Mental Health Problems The daily struggle to earn a daily bread takes a toll on an individual mental health and contributes to mental health problem.
• Mental Health Nursing Practice and Ethical Issues The purpose of the presented case and analysis is to evaluate the ethical aspects of providing care to a patient in a psychiatric ward.
• A Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Specialty Since the goal of obtaining a degree and moving toward the role of APRN prompted me to study in the MSN program, the primary choice was the specialty.
• Self-Care: Physical and Mental Health Also, there is a variety of approaches that can be used to improve self-care, and it is essential to introduce the client to all of them.
• Mental Health Issues Among Immigrants The prevalence of issues associated with CBT and the treatment of frequently occurring issues among first-generation immigrants, which include anxiety, conduct, and ADHD disorders, is currently uncertain due to the lack of experimental and academic […]
• Narrative Family Therapy: Adolescent Mental Health In the Video, the primary contributors are the couple and the narrative therapist. The narrative therapist tries first to comprehend the viewpoint of a patient on their lives and the dominant plot and changes that […]
• Cats and Their Role in Mental Health Support Using this research design, it would be possible to determine whether cats or dogs are better as therapy animals, in addition to identifying the role of felines in mental health support.
• Mental Health Counseling Settings One advantage of a private practice is that decision-making is free from the influence of government agencies, charities, and other groups. However, a government agency setting is likely to have countless bureaucracies that would hinder […]
• Mental Health in the United States The existing project serves as an assessment of the Downers Grove, Illinois community and a thorough review of how previous experience could be utilized to develop a decent strategy to address the mental health of […]
• Levinson’s “Rain Man”: Reaction to a Movie From a Mental Health Perspective The movie could equally be considered as a despoliation of several false impressions on autism and is inclined toward an improvement of appropriate knowledge of how to address autism.
• Mental Health and Grief Counseling Issues One of the objectives of grief counseling is getting an individual to the last and most important stage of the process where someone accepts the reality of the loss they experienced. This would play a […]
• Supporting Children’s Mental Health The child spends most of the time with the teacher while at school, so in this case one expects the two, that is, the child and the teacher to have a strong bondage.
• A Beautiful Mind: A Mental Health Portrayal He is the central character in the film and he ends up in conflict due to the struggles that he faces after being diagnosed with a mental disorder.
• Social Media and Mental Health The connection between the positivity of a message and its reception in social media is a crucial piece of information that needs to be incorporated into the current approach toward increasing the levels of public […]
• Considerations and Benefits of Herbal Medicine in Mental Health Treatment However, when prescribing herbal medicine, regardless of its type, it is imperative that the patient is assessed for the risk factors of its use and the potential interactions with other medication.
• Phones and Teenagers’ Mental Health Connection This essay aims to discuss the connection between phones and teenagers’ mental health and explain why the use of smartphones is merely a reflection of problems that children would face either way.
• Mental Health and Wellness in Aging Population This research proposal will examine the aspects of wellness with regards to the dimensions of mental health and among the aged.
• Mental Health Nursing of Cocaine Addiction The 1983 Mental Health Act is an Act of the Parliament of the United Kingdom that applies to the residents of England and Wales.
• Nursing Care Plan for Mental Health Unilateral neglect Impaired environmental interpretation syndrome Acute confusion Chronic confusion Ineffective impulse control Impaired memory Impaired verbal communication Hopelessness Risk for compromised human dignity
• Mental Health and Spirituality How religion helps to define life purpose and provides a sense of meaning among people who are susceptible to depression Many religious people affirm that their lives have a sense of purpose and meaning.
• The Impact of Mindset on Mental Health A positive stress mindset is about resilience to stress, and it is an attribute linked to the levels of desire that defines the focus of one’s enthusiasm and will. The knowledge of a self-awareness mindset […]
• Social Justice and Mental Health However, it is difficult to imagine the U.S.taking nationwide action on mental health due to the absence of healthcare for physical health, which is widely accepted as a serious issue.
• School-Based Yoga Program for Adolescents’ Mental Health The central aim of the research was to find the effectiveness of the therapeutic intervention. The central focus of the research was to validate the effectiveness of a yoga-based program.
• Recent Studies on Covid-19 and Mental Health The participants of the studies that pursue the understanding of how COVID-19 leads to the emergence of mental stress reported their concerns about the potential infection that has not yet happened.
• Psychological Imbalance: Mental Health Issues According to Moulden and Marshall, psychological imbalances are the major cause of the increased number of inmates with sexual offenses within Canadian prisons.
• Insurance Barriers in Mental Health Population With the help of the Affordable Care Act, access to mental health care among people with low income and from ethnic and racial minorities was improved significantly.
• The Role of the Multidisciplinary Teams in Mental Health Nursing Moreover, the effectiveness of the management of the personnel correlates with the effectiveness of the whole treatment and the decrease in time the patient would spend at the hospital.
• Debunking the Myths on Homelessness: Misconceptions About the Social Status and Mental Health The point of concern is that the housing market, particularly in the United States, does not have enough low-cost living space that is affordable to the economical marginals and people with low income.
• The Benefits of Fitness for Physical and Mental Health It is necessary to mention that I have been able to improve my sleep schedule and its quality because of exercise.
• Female Mental Health in Gilman’s “The Yellow Wallpaper” The main role of a 19th-century woman was a loving nurturer, serving the needs of her family and obedient to her husband/father.
• Marijuana and Its Effects on Mental Health The effects of the use of marijuana can be comparable to those exhibited by the removal of this important part of the brain.
• Mental Health Issues: The Public Perception In order to address the issue, it is necessary to assess the current perception of people with mental health issues by the general public.
• Substance Use and Mental Disorders in Adolescence Difference in age between the sample and the data from Australian Census carried two years earlier may however have affected the accuracy of the findings.
• Mental Health Issues Among LGBTQ (Queer) Youth Studies point to multiple factors that play a role in the risk of suicide among LGBTQ youth, such as gender, socioeconomic status, bullying, and school experience. There is a need for further research and interventions […]
• Strategies for Maintaining Good Mental Health Today, I want to inform you about mental health, including its definition, importance during different stages of development, and strategies for maintaining good mental health.
• The Influence of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Health Workers’ Mental Health The article “The mental health impact of the covid-19 pandemic on healthcare workers, and interventions to help them: A rapid systematic review” gives examples of specific means to overcome the occupation problem.
• Meditation’s Impact on Physical and Mental Health It is a dependent variable, as it has been assessed before the assignments for the groups, after said assignment, and four months later to define the outcome of the study.
• Mental Health and Illness Stigmatization Manifestations She was unable to contain her sobbing and trembling as a direct result of the symptoms of her mental illness, which included her anxiety about being judged and rejected. The diagnosis was unexpected and challenging […]
• Empowering the Care for Mental Health: Strategic Suggestions In addition, there is the issue of correctness and completeness of information about available resources, which is essential because of the sparse and heterogeneous nature of the industry.
• Aspects of the Mental Health Essentials Reg maintains a cordial relationship with his ex-wife, who is consistently concerned about his state of health and well-being, which is one of the protective factors relevant to Reg.
• Mental Health Diseases in the Middle Ages and Today In the Middle Ages, the manner in which the conditions were addressed varied depending on the philosophical and religious beliefs of the patient as well as the caregiver.
• Mental Health Nurse’s Communication With Patients and Families To conclude, communicating with patients, carers, and families as a mental health nurse demands considering the needs of each individual. On the one hand, MHNs must be active, empathetic listeners with patients and their loved […]
• Mindfulness’ Role in Mental Health Promotion With the incorporation of mindfulness into therapy, one will be able to reduce stress by promoting active health education and learning to a patient.
• Social Distancing, Financial Crisis and Mental Health The lockdown leads to the inability of people to go to the hospital for mental health consultation and treatment due to the anti-COVID measures. It is possible to talk about the spread of mental health […]
• Mental Health Interventions for Police Officers The expected outcome of this study is a generalized classification of existing mental health interventions available for the police workforce and their assessment in terms of efficiency.
• Multicultural Community Mental Health Center In addition, acculturation enhances daily organization activities favourable to clients and the workplace, which promotes the achievement of the center’s goals. A trusted relationship leads to satisfaction for both the employee and the clients, which […]
• Head Injuries and Related Mental Health Issues A mental health professional examining a patient with a head injury may encounter a wide range of symptoms that are difficult to pin down.
• Effect of Job Satisfaction on Early Childhood Educators’ Mental Health in Canada The rationale for this research is that early childhood educators are frequent targets of violence and abuse in the workplace, which can impact their mental health.
• Advocacy Programs to Address Disparities in Mental Health and Addiction Management Due to the absence of coverage offered by state Medicaid programs, the problem with the community’s overall health likely resides in a population segment that is unable to receive care, especially individuals with mental health […]
• How a Mental Health Nurse Role Supports Interprofessional Practice A collaboration between medical doctors, therapists, nurses, and pharmacists to implement a personalized plan of care to improve the health outcomes of a patient is an example of interprofessional practice, Within the interprofessional practice, mental […]
• Mental Health Issues in the COVID-19 Pandemic The governments focused their response on the physical health of their citizens and containing the spread of the virus. In other words, the first step of the action plan is to find or establish the […]
• Mental Health Management in Indigenous People For this reason, the concept of tribal mental health must be actively introduced into the relevant healthcare practices and the associated health policies.
• Addressing Mental Health Inequities: A Focus on LGBTQ Communities The main bioethical principles of organ transplantation that should be considered are beneficence – to act for the benefit of a patient, non-maleficence – not to harm, autonomy respect for a person’s choice, justice fairness, […]
• Mental Health and Well-Being of Canadian Police Officers As found in the study by Tehrani, most police officers that worked during the pandemic have been emotionally affected by it, with the lowest indicators of mental health being strongly related to anxiety and depression […]
• Understanding Mental Health: A Personal Journey and Its Impact The main impact of mental health is that, when it is not well taken care of, it could lead to depression.
• Field Practicum in Mental Health Social Work The case is a mental illness diagnosis and treatment procedure for a client with a history of mental illness who is currently showing more clinical symptoms diagnosable using reliable diagnostic manuals as described in the […]
• COVID-19 Impact on Uber Drivers’ Mental Health Although a lot of research has focused on the working conditions of Uber drivers and other individuals characterised as working in the gig economy, and further studies still have considered the financial impact of the […]
• Nursing Burnout in the Mental Health Field Therefore, burnout in the mental health field is a major problem because it has a high prevalence and affects the service delivery of employees in the mental health field.
• Subjective Well-Being (SWB): Mental Health and Life Satisfaction Also recognized as self-reported Well-being Introduced by Ed Diener, a psychologist in 1984 Components entails: Positive Affect Life Satisfaction Negative Affect Physical health is influenced by the satisfaction of life and enjoyment of life
• Abortion and Mental Health as Controversial Issues There have been issues related to the use of face masks and the number of cases of infected people. The topic of autism is a huge controversy due to denial or a lack of awareness.
• Factors That Impact Mental Health The purpose of this paper is to identify factors that impact the individual’s mental health and well-being, possible approaches that could be used to address the issues and provide a strategy involving all resources available […]
• Code of Ethics in Clinical Mental Health Counseling For instance, the ACA’s ethical values involve upholding human development by using the multicultural method to support the potential, worth, and dignity of people in their cultural and social settings.
• The Impacts of Mental Health Among Nurses Therefore, it is essential to research the impacts of the mental health of nurses on their practice to ensure what methods can effectively improve the well-being of healthcare professionals.
• Mental Health Improvement Applications A vision problem in and of itself causes anxiety for many people, and the lack of adapted apps continues to be a problem.
• Refugee Mental Health & Transcultural Psychiatry Because of this, many refugees have resorted to seeking refugee camp mental health services to cope with their situation in a new country and feel less stress.
• Mental Health of Crime Offenders The research was created with the idea that women have a significant role in promoting global health because of the importance of their health. According to the findings, life skills training programs improved women’s mental […]
• Mental Health Equity for Queer (LGBTQ) People My support for mental health equity in the LGBTQ community as a clinical mental health counselor will require my understanding of cultural competency and how to can use it in practice.
• Mental Health in School-Age Children In contrast to the response to drug or placebo, a large group of patients is difficult to treat or do not respond to treatment.
• Erectile Disorder and Mental Health The sexual dysfunction from the DSM-5 is an erectile disorder is 302.72. I entirely agree that lifestyle change, exceptionally tailored physical activity, is an essential aspect of the therapy of erectile dysfunction and should be […]
• HIV-Positive Women’s Mental Health Problems Peer review implies the submission of the article describing the details of the research process and the design to a journal that then sends this article to the professionals working in the same field, who […]
• Children’s Mental Health During COVID-19 Pandemic The following questions can shed light on this topic: What creative interventions can schools implement to avoid harming their students’ mental well-being over prolonged periods of external pressure, such as during a pandemic?
• United Nations Policy Brief on Mental Health Recovery After COVID-19 Therefore, the lack of mental health support centers and poor financing are not the only reasons for the problem, as the brief’s authors suggest.
• Nursing Profession: Mental Health Issues, Shortages, and Lack of Diversity It is necessary to determine whether the limitations in access to nursing education and training, as well as discriminatory environments, result in the absence of diversity in the nursing workforce.
• Hospital Staff Mental Health During the Pandemic The second theme that was discussed in many of the studies reviewed is the variety of factors that were involved in this issue, worsening the conditions of the health workers.
• Mental Health Services Access for Veterans Given the extreme intensity of the job that veterans have performed as well as the variety of adverse effects that follow from it, ensuring improved outcomes in the area of mental health for them is […]
• Mental Health of Physicians During the Pandemic It is obvious that the situation of constant tension in which the doctors were during the period of COVID-19 is extreme and actually a crisis.
• Ethics of Access to Sensitive Mental Health Data Not all clients wish to share the details of their mental issues and treatments with families or inmates, but their password storage practices might run counter to this need for security.
• Access to Mental Health Treatment in Peru The researcher looked through the lens of those within the community, those living in more rural areas, and the suburbs of the Capital of Lima.
• Tests in Mental Health Nursing Research This paper seeks to discuss the uses of non-parametric tests in the assigned articles and explore the issue of test selection with reference to mental health nursing research.
• Consumer Information on Mental Health Considering the specifics of the inpatient facility, online health information-seeking is more common in patients’ relatives that visit them and communicate with the staff.
• The Principles of Education in Mental Health Thus, the image of leaner may be represented as a sophisticated combination of mental and cognitive processes that are to be recognized and accounted for in the process of learning.
• Mental Health of Healthcare Workers After COVID-19 Concerning the objectives of Healthy People 2020, the examined topic is related to the category of Mental Health and Mental Disorders.
• Cooper Mental Health Counseling Advertising The goal of the campaign will be to attract the maximum number of clients to the psychological counseling clinic. The call to action in the case of this advertising campaign will be a call to […]
• Neuroscience on Mental Health Issues Over the years, a significant source of concerns regarding neurogenesis touches on scientists’ inability to quantify the number of neurons generated by the adult’s brain in a day. However, investigations on neurogenesis in the hippocampus […]
• Managing Mental Health Medications for Depression and its Ethical Contradiction The second objective is to discover ethical contradictions in such treatment for people of various cultures and how different people perceive the disorder and react to the medication.
• Mental Health Conditions: Manifestations and Biases On my side, I hold to the bias that mental health conditions can only receive medication for it to be restored to normal.
• Preliminary Care Coordination Plan for Mental Health As the shift from hospital care to community-based one has occurred, it is first important to engage the patients in these communities and breach the gap of the lack of information.
• Benefits of Mindfulness Meditation for Mental Health At the age of 10, Maria was raped, and after that, the patient began to engage in prostitution to help her family financially since her mother and grandmother could not support everyone.
• Nurses’ Mental Health and Stress at Workplace This is the first research to present the viewpoints of mental health nurses on a resilience program. Theoretical ideas of resilience and understanding of mental health nurses’ resilience emerged through constant comparative study and integration […]
• Prisons as Mental Health Institutions The following list contains the group’s goals: Identification of the cause of unfavorable circumstances; Resolution of legal disputes regarding the perpetrators; Help the victim to improve their living conditions; Achieving the payment of a fine […]
• The Impact of Coronavirus Pandemic on Teens’ Mental Health The study of the impact of the global pandemic on the mental state of adolescents and ways to combat them is of particular interest for this research paper.
• Cultural and Ethical Perspectives of Nurse Mental Health As a result, the given subject involves specific cultural and ethical perspectives and analysis of these perspectives is vital to analyze and implement policies as well as see the overall trend of the issue.
• Mental Health Treatment Analysis For the pharmacological treatment to control PTSD, the recent symptomatology experienced, comorbid conditions, and evidence of the efficiency of treatments before medication initiation are the factors that a clinician has to consider.
• The Problem of Mental Health in Florida The health of children is one of the major concerns of the healthcare sector as they are the future of the nation.
• Administration Errors in a Mental Health Hospital The selection of a representative group from the population of interest is among the prerequisites for the production of reliable and generalizable results.
• Mental Health and Its Social Determinants The article chosen for the analysis strives to explore the correlation between the social determinants and the development of mental illnesses in people in different stages of their lives.
• Discussion of Nurses’ Mental Health Issues This is explained by the high complexity and demands of work, which is exacerbated by the increase in responsibility and the number of patients due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
• “Parental Characteristics and Offspring Mental Health” by Jami The title of the article is “Parental characteristics and offspring mental health and related outcomes: A systematic review of genetically informative literature”.
• Effects of Tension in the Workplace Environment on the Mental Health of Nurses Due to the sharp increase in the need to focus, as well as the probability of workplace conflicts and the resulting emotional strain, workplace tensions in the nursing setting, specifically in nurses providing individual care, […]
• Gender Expectations: Impact on Mental Health Such feelings may be overwhelming, resulting in emotional distress and causing the individuals to attempt suicide to end the anguish. Alcohol and substance abuse may be the leading causes of suicide in Australia.
• Improving the Mental Health System The problem has brought attention to the WHO as well as the nursing arena to implement strategies to address the unmet needs in mental care, especially in the United States metropolitan areas.
• Social Media Damages Teenagers’ Mental Health Thus, the selected social group that could help improve teenagers’ mental health is sports coaches and organizers of sports activities in schools.
• Wellness: An Analysis of Mental Health The complex nature of mental health calls for a humanities approach to enable conceptualization of the mind and brain for improved mental health care and human well-being.
• Super Bowl LVI From Mental Health Perspective While individuals may never grasp entirely why they feel compelled to yell and shout from the stands, sports like the Super Bowl can be helpful for mental health in the context of leisure and the […]
• Therapeutic Techniques: Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing The technique involves focusing on one idea or word produced by the client; Aimed to help in a more detailed consideration of significant thoughts; Particularly relevant when working with patients who shift from subject […]
• The Problem of Mental Health Disparities Challenges and opportunities to meet the mental health needs of underserved and disenfranchised populations in the United States. The authors of this article explore ways to address psychological problems in adults arising from the gap […]
• Lifestyle Choices and Mental Health However, in this context, it is essential to clarify more information about the client’s lifestyle and verify the authenticity of the indicated factors.
• Mount Carmel Mental Health Hospital’s Framework It remains the only hospital with in-patient psychiatric and mental health care in Malta after the closing of the psychiatric unit at Mater Dei Hospital in 2020, and the construction of a new mental health […]
• Peplau’s Middle-Range Theory in Mental Health Nursing This paper addresses the topic of nursing theory by reviewing current research pertaining to hypothetico-deductive reasoning, suggesting the model’s potential value in the research of nurse education techniques and barriers to decision-making, and discussing the […]
• Mental Health Services for Healthcare Providers of Critical Patients For the examination of the specified problem, the suitable setting is one of the local hospitals willing to participate in the project, and the contact there will be an administrator with access to the essential […]
• Holes in Financial Plan of Mental Health Services In the case of the current project, first of all, it is hard to predict the real demand for mental health services among doctors.
• Community Outreach Program for Veterans’ Mental Health Outcomes The issue at the center of this document is the high level of suicide risk in the veteran population and the urgent need to address this problem through therapy to prevent suicide in veterans.
• Psychopharmacology and Mental Health Practice It is becoming increasingly necessary for a mental health practitioner to be familiar and knowledgeable about pharmacological aspects of the treatment of mental issues.
• Mental Health Needs of the New York Community That is why there is a clear need to study the physical and psychological state of the health of the population.
• Mental Health Disorder: Case Conceptualization Due to her developmental delays, she held back in kindergarten and is currently at risk of being held back again, and her attendance record is very poor.
• Negative Impacts of COVID-19 Lockdown on Mental Health Service Access The sampling of the selected study is relatively narrow, yet it allowed the researchers to conduct a detailed data analysis and was sufficient to identify the tendencies for follow-up visits.
• Social Interaction for Mental Health and Wellbeing Although, these features enable inmates to shape their social and health relationships, the likely hood of retreating the positive relationship between health and social incorporation found in several social backgrounds.
• Social Media and Women’s Mental Health From this point of view, the examination of the presented challenge is critical in order to ensure the mental health of the female population by timely addressing the mentioned obstacles and dispelling the illusions.
• Discussion of Students’ Mental Health This fact is revealed in the low number of students who decided to seek help from a mental health specialist in the past year.
• Are Nurses Within the Aged Care Sector Equipped and Trained to Care for Mental Health Patients? Access to psychological care, the role and responsibilities of service providers, and the management of mental health care are among the gaps and challenges in the field.
• Psychological Wellness and Mental Health It is impossible to imagine the development of the sciences and civilization as a whole without focusing on mental health and areas of wellness.
• Burden of Stigma in Mental Health Help Seeking Afterward, he understood the concept and opted to recommend the need for the suffering people to share their traumatic events and experiences with their peers and qualified mental health professionals.
• Residential Programs for Teens With Mental Health Issues So, in addition to various activities, it is necessary to introduce mandatory work with specialists in psychology into the plan. The first thing organizations need to include in the program is bringing the spine into […]
• Post-Modern Perspective on Mental Health Nursing This is due to the replacement of traditional cultural structures by the commoditization of social living, consumption, and failure to support the mental health needs that result in psychopathology.
• Mental Health in Sex Workers There are financial needs that make the sex work industry one of the “to-go” choices for young adults in need of money.
• Emotional Abuse and Role of Clinical Mental Health Counselor The main rationale for selecting the specified type of trauma is the fact that it is most likely to be unreported, both due to the fear stemming from the emotional violence and the lack of […]
• Mental Health and Exposure of Genes to the Environment Although the range of influence of a gene is determined by the size and functionality of the cell in which it is located, the formation of proteins, including those that form homeostasis, plays a key […]
• Motivational Interviewing for Mental Health Patients This is why it is imperative for the counsellor to be patient and honest with the client about their condition. Only when a patient is aware of their mental damage, can they amass the strength […]
• Building Provincial Mental Health Capacity in Primary Care Subsequently, to monitor the effectiveness of the project, evaluators scrutinized a mental health and addiction-oriented ECHO program in Ontario, Canada, at the end of the program.
• Mental Health Problems in Bisexuals Thus, the study appears to be insightful in the context of exploring the mental health of bisexuals. This article is informative, as it describes that the aforementioned factors appear to be influential considerably in the […]
• Mental Health in Bisexuals: Mental Health Issues The current research views the mental health of bisexuals from several different perspectives in order to evaluate all the possible mechanisms that could have contributed to mental health issues in bisexual individuals over the course […]
• Mental Health Counseling and Ethical Standards Relevant codes contribute to following the necessary rules to communicate and interact with clients and meeting the standards of professional collaboration.
• Mental Health of Community The Worcester Country Health Department has mental health services developed for both adults and youngsters. There are no eligibility criteria for using the materials and services of the department.
• Mental Health Project: Binge-Eating Disorder The result was the start of the Binge-Eating Disorder Association, a non-profit organization. The main role of the organization was to advocate, support, and help the binge-eating disorder society.
• Poverty, Partner Abuse, and Women’s Mental Health In general, the study aimed at investigating the interaction between poverty and the severity of abuse in women. The research question being studied in this article is how income intersects with partner violence and impacts […]
• Clinical Supervision in the Mental Health Practice Moreover, McNeill and Stoltenberg delved deeply into appreciating IDM’s refinement and evolution over time and the limitations it had at the time of the study. In this section of the book, McNeill and Stoltenberg explore […]
• Mental Health Crisis in Australian Young Men In particular, he organizes meetings of young people and tells them his story of beating depression and suicide survival in order to inspire them as the help from the side of the country’s health care […]
• Exploring Mental Health and Drug Use in West Africa The specific research objectives are the following: To explore the prevalence and occurrence of major mental health challenges in West African countries.
• Mental Health: T-Test and ANOVA in Clinical Practice The purpose of the study was to identify the causes of the first psychiatry consult and investigate patients’ perspectives on conditions that influence the reluctance in seeking mental health services and access in general.
• Community Risk Assessment: Mental Health Disorders: New York The identified area of focus in the community is the prevalence of mental health disorders. These resources will ensure an adequate and comprehensive assessment of the mental health conditions within the community.
• Mental Health and Struggles of African American Women This paper seeks to explore the origins of the strong black woman stereotype and its cultural portrayal and discuss the tolls of mental health and struggles that affect highly marginalized African American women in the […]
• The Intersection of COVID-19 and Mental Health However, using the statement of the study’s purpose, the research question appears to be the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental, neurological, and substance use services in 130 WHO Member States.
• Mental Health Issues of Disabled People in Prison There is a need to enforce the rights of disabled people in prisons by understanding the causes of mental health issues and developing the necessary support systems.
• Mental Health in the US: Roles of Stakeholders The mental health courts also play vital roles in the management of challenges posed by individuals experiencing mental disturbances.
• Counseling on Mental Health & Disorders in Children Victims of bullying are helpless to an assortment of negative results. Tormented teenagers are bound to encounter long-haul harm to confidence and feeling of depression.
• Adolescent Mental Health: Why It Is a Problem Adolescent mental health constitutes a considerable public health issue recognized, among other things, as one of the 2020 Topics and Objectives on the Healthy People.
• Mental Health Information Disclosure and Moral Panic Therefore, to facilitate the wellbeing of the citizens and at the same time make sure that the rights of the mentally disadvantaged should not be infringed, one must consider the connection between the development of […]
• Mental Health Patients and Moral Panic
• Perinatal, Infant and Child Mental Health
• Mental Health Self-Support Group
• The Mental Health Within Virginia During COVID-19
• The Impact of the ACA on Mental Health Practice
• Stanford Health Care: The Impact of Culture on Mental Health
• Mental Health Nursing Analysis
• Question of Youngsters With Mental Health Problems
• Mental Health Patterns and Outcomes
• Current Mental Health Care Need
• Mental Health Nursing: A Treatment Plan for Mr. Pall
• Inter-Household Caregiving and Adult Children’s Mental Health
• Analysis of Mental Health in Crime
• The Psychiatric-Mental Health Assessment
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• Mental Health Paper: Depression
• Mental Health & Incidences of Homelessness in Australia
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• The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s Center
• Improving Mental Health Care System in British Columbia
• Relationship Among Mental Health, Hypertension and Telomere Length
• Epidemiology Applied to Mental Health
• Mental Health Parity Act Analysis
• Mental Health Service Provision in Australia
• Mental Health Condition Indicators
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• The Problem of Mental Health Recovery
• Mental Health Care in Cannabis Addiction Case
• Mental Health Nursing: Dementia
• A Comparative Study of Mental Health Between Players and Non Players
• Coronavirus Pandemic: Improvement of the Mental Health of the Patients
• Acceptability and Feasibility of Using Non-Specialist Health Workers to Deliver Mental Health Care
• Critique of Scottish Mental Health Strategy
• Mental Health and Suicidality in the United Kingdom
• Sedatives or Depressants in Individuals With a Mental Health Problem
• Ethical Dilemmas in Mental Health Treatment
• Crisis Intervention in Veteran’s Mental Health
• Current Market Strategies for Mental Health Services
• Vincent van Gogh’s Mental Health Problems
• Mental Health Care Analysis
• Effects of Drugs and Alcohol Use on Mental Health
• Confidentiality in Mental Health
• Mental Health Stigma From American Perspective
• Psychopathology. The United States National Mental Health
• Mental Health of Canadians Overview
• Unconscious Mind and Mental Health Treatment
• Ethical Dilemma in Mental Health Patient Care
• Burnout as a Mental Health Issue in the Workplace
• Teaching and Learning in Mental Health Nursing
• Mental Health Care Disparities in America
• Physical Healthcare Among Mental Health Patients
• Psychiatry. Promoting Recovery in Mental Health
• Cannabis Effects on Mental Health
• Social Media Users’ Personality and Mental Health
• Consumer-Centered Mental Health Education
• Mental Health Problems: Patient Care
• Optimal Mental Health Approaches: Depression & Anxiety
• Mental Health Issues Identification in Schools
• Mental Health Nursing Skills in Practice
• Prisoners’ Physical and Mental Health Care Needs
• Protective Factors Promoting Mental Health
• Medi-Cal Expansion of Mental Health Services
• Mental Health Patients in the Post-Anaesthesia Care Unit
• Mental Health Promotion and Effective Interventions
• Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurses’ Roles
• Explaining Mental Health Inequalities in Northern Sweden
• The Role of Nurses in Managing Mental Health Issues
• Mental Health Care, Its Politics and Ethics
• Mental Health Issues and Substance Abuse: Dual Diagnosis
• Pre-Mental Health Counseling Assessment for Child
• Stigma Effects on Mental Health Treatment in Minorities
• Substance Abuser’s Mental Health Risks in 3D Model
• Understanding Student Perceptions of Mental Health
• Mental Health Practice in the UK
• Sociology of Mental Health and Gender
• Ethics in Psychology and the Mental Health Professions
• Mental Health Illness Problems Corrections
• Mental Health: Challenge of the Juvenile Justice System
• Mental Health as the Juvenile Justice System Challenge
• Psychological Assessment of Mental Health Issues
• Mental Health Among Latin American Adolescents
• Mental Health Care Services for Veterans
• Information Technology Company’s Employee Mental Health
• Soldiers’ Therapy in Military Mental Health Clinic
• Buddhist Traditional Healing in Mental Health
• Mental Health Strategies at the Workplace
• Mental Health: Research Methodologies Issues
• Mental Health Practice Model for Public Institutions
• Mental Health Disparities’ Data Collection
• Schizophrenia – Mental Health Disorder
• Female Mental Health in Sociocultural Conditions
• Mental Health: Screening and Assessment
• Mental Health Specialist Job and Career
• Mental Health Nursing: Health and Illness
• Human Resources for the Alcohol, Drug and Mental Health
• Transitions in Late Life – Mental Health Concerns
• Child’s Mental Health and Depression in Adulthood
• Medical Ethics in Mental Health Care
• Refugees and Mental Health
• Mental Health Issues in the Criminal Justice System
• Effective Mental Health Counseling
• Community Interventions for Improving Mental Health
• NYS Office of Mental Health
• Eliminating Stigmatization in Mental Health Diagnoses
• Mental Health Benefits in the Employee Benefits Package
• Security at the New York State Office of Mental Health
• Mental Health Counselor: Ethics and Professionalism
• The Critical Role of School Psychology in the School Mental Health Movement
• Mental Health Administration
• Ambulance Personnel and Critical Incidents: Impact of Accident and Emergency Work on Mental Health and Emotional Well-Being
• Mental Health & Culture on Weight and Eating Disorders
• Mental Health Community Nursing
• Mental Health: Bipolar Disorder Problem
• Child’s Mental Health: Factors and Impacts
• Mental Health and American Society
• Problems Related to Physical and Mental Health Issues
• What Are the Five Signs of Good Mental Health?
• What Impact Does Lack of Sleep Have on Our Physical Emotional and Mental Health?
• Who Suffers From Mental Health?
• How Can Technology Help Mental Health Professionals?
• How Does Mental Health Affect Poverty Rates?
• How Does Mental Health Effects Persons, Families, and Carers?
• Why Might the Experience of Child Sexual Abuse Lead to Mental Health Problems in Adulthood?
• What Causes Mental Health Problems?
• How Does Friendship Help With Your Mental Health?
• Why Should We Care About Mental Health?
• How Do Mental Health Problems Affect People With Anxiety Disorder?
• How Have COVID-19 Isolation Policies Affected Young Peoples’ Mental Health?
• How Does Technology Affect Mental Health?
• What Are the 4 Types of Mental Health?
• How Can Understand the Mental Health Benefits of Physical?
• What Is Another Word for Mental Health?
• How Might Developing Cultural Competence Improve Mental Health Services?
• How Does Music Therapy Promote Positive Mental Health?
• How Does Junk Food Affect Teenagers’ Mental Health?
• How Does Climate Weather Affect Mood Mental Health?
• How the Media Changes People’s Attitudes Towards Mental Health?
• How Does Occupational Stress Affect Mental Health?
• How Does Mental Health Affect Us Everday?
• How Does Physical Health Affect Mental Health Communications?
• How Do Society and Environment Affect People ‘S Mental Health?
• How Can Exercise Improve Your Mental Health?
• How Can I Help My Mental Health?
• How Can Injuries Cause Mental Health Issues?
• How Would Childhood Experiences Affect the Development of Their Mental Health?
• How Does Depression Affect Our Mental Health System?
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IvyPanda. (2024, March 2). 311 Powerful Mental Health Topics to Write about & Essay Examples. https://ivypanda.com/essays/topic/mental-health-essay-topics/

"311 Powerful Mental Health Topics to Write about & Essay Examples." IvyPanda , 2 Mar. 2024, ivypanda.com/essays/topic/mental-health-essay-topics/.

IvyPanda . (2024) '311 Powerful Mental Health Topics to Write about & Essay Examples'. 2 March.

IvyPanda . 2024. "311 Powerful Mental Health Topics to Write about & Essay Examples." March 2, 2024. https://ivypanda.com/essays/topic/mental-health-essay-topics/.

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IvyPanda . "311 Powerful Mental Health Topics to Write about & Essay Examples." March 2, 2024. https://ivypanda.com/essays/topic/mental-health-essay-topics/.

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Writing College Essays about Mental Health in the Context of the Pandemic

Written by Vanessa Garrido on July 7th, 2022

• writing college essays ,
• mental health ,
• Weigh your pros and cons, which may look something like:
• Pro: You are providing the admission office and student services with a fuller picture of your needs and circumstances as they relate to your mental health. If a college doesn’t feel it can support you, the school is not going to be a great fit for you.
• Con: Reducing your mental health challenges down to a 650-word essay is not likely to capture the full complexity of your experience. Your essay will only reveal a sliver of this facet of your life and may be misread or misinterpreted.
• Ask yourself these questions if you’re considering writing about your mental health:
• Are you currently in the midst of your mental health challenges? The personal statement is intended to give you an opportunity to shine light on your growth. If you’re managing something as complex as depression or an eating disorder, it can be challenging to focus on the growth. Your college essay might not be the ideal place to process the relevant feelings and issues. You may want to explore a different topic and address your mental health through journaling, talk therapy, etc.
• What positive personal qualities do you want to highlight, and is this topic the best way to let these traits shine? Remember, this is the one story about you most admission officers will have access to. Is this the one story you want to share?
• What is your perspective? How might you share a story that will be a vibrant, authentic take on something that is affecting a large swath of the population?
• How have you changed? How has this experienced helped you become the person you are today? What do you want your readers to take away?
• Identify ACEs (Adverse Childhood Experiences)
• Mental Health Resources for Adolescents and Young Adults from SAHM
• SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) Helpline and Resources
• National Institute of Mental Health
• Mental Health First Aid training for teens

When is the right time to get started? How can you keep my child on track? Get all the answers to your most pressing questions.

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How to Write a Mental Health in College Students Essay

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Writing is a skill that takes time to build. Essays force you to practice research, critical thinking and communication skills – college is the perfect time for you to practice these. However, there’s only so much you can learn about writing through preparation. If you’ve been assigned an essay on mental health, you may not be sure where to begin. You might also wonder if you should choose mental health as a topic for a college paper. Here’s how to write a “mental health in college students” essay. 

• What Not to Do

If you’re trying to choose a topic for a college application essay, mental health is usually not the way to go. Your personal statement should show colleges why you’re the best candidate to attend their school. Because many students write about mental health , your essay may get lost in the crowd. In addition, your mental health journey is only a part of who you are. 

It can be difficult for many students to write about personal mental struggles without seeming overdramatic. Unless mental health struggles have shaped your whole life, it’s best to discuss other topics. If you mention mental health, stay brief and matter-of-fact. Don’t let it become the whole point of your essay. 

• Review the Instructions

If you’re writing this essay for a college course, start by looking over the assignment instructions. Don’t just listen to what your teacher says – look up the assignment on the syllabus to see if you can find a rubric or other relevant information. 

Highlight the important points to make sure you know what matters to your professor. The instructions are parameters you can operate in to create an essay you enjoy. Make sure you check word count, essay structure and review corrections on past essays. If you’re confused about something, don’t hesitate to ask your professor for clarification. 

• Do the Research 

Regardless of what class you’re writing for, this is the kind of topic that requires hard numbers. You don’t want to make general claims about rates of student anxiety or mental illness – to be credible, you need specifics. Be careful with your wording to avoid all-or-nothing statements. Everyone experiences mental health differently. 

Your professor may or may not allow you to pick the specific mental health topic you write about. However, you can ensure that your paper is well-researched and organized clearly. Before you start writing, create at least a basic outline showing the flow of ideas. This will make the writing phase much faster because you’ll always know what to say next. 

• Write It Out 

Writer’s block often stems from perfectionism. This paper won’t be perfect the first time, so don’t worry about writing it perfectly! Start with an interesting line that gets your reader’s attention and make sure you have a clear thesis statement. Taken by itself, this sentence should describe the contents of your entire paper. 

Build your paragraphs to the right word length by using specific examples. You should start each paragraph with a topic sentence that takes your reader one step in your paper’s argument. Then, describe a specific example that further explains this idea. You can find specific examples in your research or simply explain more about what you mean. 

• Edit Your Work

Editing is an important final step before you turn an essay in. It gives you an opportunity to look at your writing as a whole and ensure everything makes sense. If possible, you should set your first draft aside for a while before you reread it. This will help you see your work with fresh eyes so you can edit it. 

Editing involves strengthening your paper’s organization, rewriting specific sentences and checking for errors. You should make major edits first and then do a final read-through to catch punctuation and spelling mistakes. It can be helpful to read your paper out loud or have a friend look it over as well. 

One Key Takeaway for Writing a Mental Health in College Students Essay

Many students struggle with mental health while in school. Whatever topic you choose and however you organize your essay, make sure to write it with a sensitive tone. This topic is nuanced and shouldn’t be treated as a black-and-white issue. Write from an informed and compassionate point of view and offer your readers hope. 

Use this guide to write an essay on mental health in college students that astounds and delights your professor. Putting in the work will build research and communication skills you’ll use for years – whether you’re a psychology major, a premed student or studying the arts at school. 

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Is it OK to discuss mental health in an essay?

Mental health struggles can create challenges you must overcome during your education and could be an opportunity for you to show how you’ve handled challenges and overcome obstacles. If you’re considering writing your essay for college admission on this topic, consider talking to your school counselor or with an English teacher on how to frame the essay.

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Students Get Real About Mental Health—and What They Need from Educators

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• Perspectives
• Student Support

M ental health issues among college students have skyrocketed . From 2013 to 2021, the number of students who reported feelings of depression increased 135 percent, and the number of those with one or more mental health problems doubled. Simply put, the well-being of our students is in jeopardy.

To deepen our understanding of this crisis, we asked 10 students to speak candidly about their mental health. We learned that the issues they face are uniquely theirs and yet collectively ours. We hope these responses will inform your teaching and encourage you to create safe classroom spaces where students feel seen and supported.

Students Share Their Mental Health Struggles—and What Support They Need

We asked these students and recent graduates, In what ways has your mental health affected your college experience, and how can professors better support you? Here’s what they had to say.

Elizabeth Ndungu, graduate student in the School of Professional Studies at Columbia University, United States: My mental health has affected me deeply, and I have sought therapy (which is a big thing for me, as I was born and raised in Africa and therapy is a “Western” concept). I’m a caregiver, so unexpected medical emergencies happen a lot, which mentally stresses me out. However, my professors have given me the time I need to perform my best. They’ve listened.

In general, I think professors can better support students by

Observing and reaching out to students if they notice a pattern of behavior.

Being kind. Giving a student a second chance may very well change their life for the better.

Being supportive. Remember students’ names, learn one unique thing about them that’s positive, or connect with them on LinkedIn or other social media platforms and show them that they have a mentor.

I think schools can better support students by

Admitting diverse students. Don’t just say it—do it. Seek out ways to make the school population more DEIA (diversity, equity, inclusion, accessibility) friendly, especially at historically white colleges. Inclusivity should be everywhere.

Making DEIA initiatives a priority. If you are educating organizations’ next leaders, make sure DEIA initiatives are in each program and cohort. Each of our classes should be tied to knowledge, strategy, and DEIA and its impact.

Raising awareness around mental health. Provide onsite and remote resources for mental assistance, automate low complexity tasks that will cause stress to students, invest in your staff and resources, and ensure that they are happy. Because dealing with unhappy staff will make unhappy students.

Pritish Dakhole, sophomore studying engineering at Birla Institute of Technology and Science, Pilani, India: Mental health is still stigmatized in India. We do not have easy access to therapy sessions, and it is a difficult topic to talk about with family. Thankfully, the scenario is changing.

I have been affected both positively and negatively by my mental health. Positively, because I have become more open-minded and perceptive. Negatively, because it has drained my will to continue, made me tired from all the overthinking, and made me turn to harmful addictions to distract myself from the pain.

Professors and schools could provide better support through

Webinars and meetings that make students aware of the issues they face and how to tackle them.

Group sessions—preferably anonymous—to remove fear.

Feedback systems so that the college is made aware of the problems that lead to a bad mental state.

Flexible education systems that allow students to take breaks during periods of excessive burnout.

Ocean Ronquillo-Morgan, Class of ’21, studied computer science and business administration at the University of Southern California, United States: In February 2021, I called 911 twice in the span of two weeks. I thought I was dying. I felt confused, felt like my body was about to give way, then I called the paramedics. They hooked me up to an EKG and checked my pulse. It was the first time in my life that I experienced panic attacks.

I don’t think anything else could have been done at the classroom level besides extending deadlines in extenuating circumstances. That’s the unfortunate nature of post-education institutions—you still need to make it “fair” for all students.

Alberto Briones, Class of ’22, studied operations and information management at Northern Illinois University, United States: Mental health can be a touchy subject. I have experienced depression and anxiety, but just thinking about all the things I could miss in life if I gave up is what gave me the strength to keep going.

Something professors can do to support students’ mental health is give students time to study between tests. Sometimes professors schedule tests on the same day, and suddenly students must study for three or four exams, all in the same day. It becomes overwhelming and they have to prioritize what tests they need to study more for.

Anjali Bathra Ravikumar, sophomore studying management information systems at The University of Texas at Austin, United States: It is stressful to be an international student at a competitive university in a competitive major. I often find myself having breakdowns and calling my parents in a panic about my future. The relatively restricted job opportunities because of my visa status and uncertainty about whether I’ll be able to forge the career that I want are major reasons behind this.

I have noticed that a lot of my international-student friends are constantly hustling as well, since we feel that we always need to be 10 steps ahead and cannot afford to slow down.

The best thing that a professor can do for me is provide as much guidance as possible in their respective field. Most of my professors have done that. This helps weed out some of the doubts that I have about potential career paths and gives me better clarity about the future. I feel that I cannot ask for more since I don’t expect everyone to be informed of what life is like for an international student.

Schools, on the other hand, can do a lot for us, such as tailor career management resources, offer international student group counseling (I attended one session and it was very liberating), provide financial relief (this is the absolute best thing that can be done for us) during rough times such as COVID-19. For example, when millions of international students had to take online classes during the pandemic, schools could have offered reduced tuition rates.

Something else that can seem small but goes a long way is using inclusive language in university announcements and communication. Most of the emails that we receive from the university feel more tailored to or are directly addressing in-state students (especially when major changes were happening at the beginning of the pandemic), and it is natural for us to feel left out. It might be a simple thing, but a couple of lines at the end of each email announcement with links addressing our specific concerns would make a lot of difference to us since we wouldn’t have to do our own research to figure out what it means for us.

EDUCATE YOURSELF BEFORE DIVING INTO MENTAL HEALTH TALKS

Starting a mental health conversation with students before we are prepared can be harmful. Here’s some advice from “ It’s Time We Talk About Mental Health in Business Classrooms ” by Bahia El Oddi, founder of Human Sustainability Inside Out, and Carin-Isabel Knoop, executive director of the Case Research and Writing Group at Harvard Business School, on how to get ready for these critical conversations.

Learn to talk about mental health. Enhance your mental health literacy through free resources such as the Learn Mental Health Literacy course (specifically for educators), the World Health Organization , and the National Institute of Mental Health . Consult the CDC for language about mental and behavioral health and the American Psychiatry Association for ways to describe individuals presenting with potential mental health disorders .

Reflect on your own biases. Consider how your own story—being raised by a parent with a mental health disorder, for example—may influence how you react and relate to others. Determine your level of openness to discussing the struggles you or your loved ones face or have faced. While it is possible to discuss mental health in the classroom without these anecdotes or personal connections, the courage to be open about your own past can have a transformative effect on classroom discussion.

Understand students may need extra support. Make yourself accessible and approachable to your students from the start so you can establish trust early. Advise them to seek professional help when necessary.

Nick Neral, Class of ’18, studied marketing management at the University of Akron, United States: At the end of my first year of college, I decided to stop participating in Division I athletics and my mental health plummeted. After calling our campus counseling center and waiting six weeks for my first intake appointment, I was told I couldn’t start therapy for two more months, but I could get medication within a couple of days.

After getting prescriptions for an SSRI and Xanax, I never heard from another clinician at my school again. They had no clue if I got the meds, if I took them, how I was doing, and whether I was on campus every day.

When my mental health was at its poorest, I was very disconnected from my classes. I went to, I think, five or six out of 30 finance classes I had during the semester.

I think professors are in this mindset that 20 percent of the class will naturally excel, a majority will do well enough, and a small chunk probably can’t be saved. Sometimes we don’t need saving in the classroom, we just need professors looking out for our well-being. There’s more to the story when a kid doesn’t show up to 80 percent of their classes.

My experience—and seeing others go through similar events—led me to create a platform where therapists can create content and free resources at forhaley.com . Anyone can filter through the content based on how they’re feeling and what’s going on in their life without paying anything or creating an account.

Shreyas Gavit, Class of ’20 in the MBA program at Oakland University, United States: Mental health has affected me because I’ve been depressed and feel trapped; I can’t just go to my home country and come back to the United States whenever I need to. Instead, I have to wait on visa dates, which are a total mess.

Schools and professors could provide more guidance in understanding how immigration has been affected due to COVID-19.

Nigel Hammett, Class of ’19, studied industrial and systems engineering at North Carolina Agricultural & Technical State University, United States: Throughout college I faced mental stress—not only from school, like everyone, but also from many constant family issues going on back home that required my energy. At times, I learned how to push through my feelings and submerge myself in my schoolwork, although I should have unpacked my trauma and handled it in a more mature way.

Students need an environment that encourages inclusive, candid dialogue around how we are feeling. There’s a correlation between social and mental health to overall success in our respective careers.

Alek Nybro, Class of ’21, studied marketing at St. Edward’s University, United States: Anxiety shows up differently for every person. I consider myself to be high functioning. This means when the going gets tough, I dig down and keep pushing, but often to extents that aren’t physically, emotionally, or mentally healthy.

In school, I didn’t know when to step back and take a break. That’s probably my biggest regret about my college years.

Professors could help students by making everything iterative. There shouldn’t be a final grade for assignments or projects. If you want to go back and revise something for a better grade, you should be able to do so.

Patrick Mandiraatmadja, first-year graduate student studying technology management at Columbia University, United States: There are times when I have felt overwhelmed by the number of deadlines and exams crammed into a specific week or few days. I always want to put in my best effort to study, which can lead to less sleep and more anxiety. Then college becomes more about getting through assignments and exams just for the sake of it and less about the learning.

Because of the amount of work or busy work, I have less opportunity to go out and do the things that make me feel alive and excited about life—whether it’s being with friends, exploring my city, exercising, involving myself with professional and social networks outside of school, or simply taking a walk and enjoying my day.

Students want to know that our professors and schools care. Part of that is providing an environment where we can talk about our personal struggles. I also think professors and schools should update the policies on homework, assignments, and exams. Sometimes we may push through and neglect our mental health, not taking the time to care for ourselves, just to get through that homework or finish that exam. The added pressure causes us increased anxiety; it’s no wonder today’s young people are some of the most anxious and unmotivated compared to previous generations.

What We Learned from These Students

These students and young alumni offer an honest glimpse into how mental health struggles have affected their college experiences. Although every student faces their own unique—and sometimes complicated—challenges, we are learning that sometimes the best response is the simplest one.

We must show our students that we care. So lend an empathetic ear, offer that deadline extension, and turn your classroom into a safe haven for open discussion. Your students need it.

Special thanks to Justin Nguyen , founder of Declassified Media , for connecting HBP to these students and young alumni who volunteered to share their experiences.

Help shape our coverage: These students spoke candidly; now it’s your turn. What are the biggest challenges you face in addressing student mental health in and out of the classroom? What experiences have stood out to you? Let us know .

Elizabeth Ndungu is a graduate student in the School of Professional Studies at Columbia University.

Pritish Dakhole is a sophomore studying engineering at Birla Institute of Technology and Science in Pilani, India.

Ocean Ronquillo-Morgan is a member of the University of Southern California’s Class of ’21.

Alberto Briones is a member of Northern Illinois University’s Class of ’22.

Anjali Bathra Ravikumar is a sophomore at The University of Texas at Austin.

Nick Neral studied marketing management at the University of Akron and is a member of the Class of ’18.

Shreyas Gavit studied in the MBA program at Oakland University and graduated as a member of the Class of ’20.

Nigel Hammett studied industrial and systems engineering at North Carolina A&T State University and graduated as a member of Class of ’19.

Alek Nybro studied marketing at St. Edward’s University and graduated as a member of the Class of ’21.

Patrick Mandiraatmadja is a first-year graduate student studying technology management at Columbia University.

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Your chance of acceptance, your chancing factors, extracurriculars, is it okay to discuss mental health struggles in my college essay.

Hello, everyone! I'm brainstorming ideas for my college essay, and I was considering writing about how I overcame mental health struggles during my high school years. Do you think it's wise to discuss mental health issues in a college essay, or should I choose a safer topic? I'm seriously torn, so any advice or insights would be appreciated!

Honestly, discussing mental health in your college essay can be a double-edged sword. On one hand, it may demonstrate your resilience and growth through adversity. On the other hand, some schools might be concerned about your ability to adapt to college life, which could be stressful.

If you decide to write about your mental health journey, focus on the positives that have come from your experience. For example, you could discuss how overcoming your struggles allowed you to become a stronger, more empathetic person. Make sure to also emphasize the strategies and support networks you've developed to manage your mental health, demonstrating that you're well-equipped to handle future challenges.

That being said, if you have a different essay topic that you feel just as passionate about, you might consider choosing that one instead. In the end, the most important element of your essay is being genuine and showcasing your unique perspective.

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Mental Health Problems among Young People—A Scoping Review of Help-Seeking

Katrin häggström westberg.

1 School of Health and Welfare, Halmstad University, SE-301 18 Halmstad, Sweden; [email protected] (M.N.); [email protected] (J.M.N.); [email protected] (P.S.)

2 Affecta Psychiatric Clinic, Sperlingsgatan 5, SE-302 48 Halmstad, Sweden

Maria Nyholm

Jens m. nygren, petra svedberg, associated data.

Documentation on the database searches, the stepped screening process and the thematic analysis are available from the corresponding author upon reasonable request.

Young people’s mental health is a public health priority, particularly as mental health problems in this group seem to be increasing. Even in countries with supposedly good access to healthcare, few young people seek support for mental health problems. The aim of this study was twofold, firstly to map the published literature on young people’s experiences of seeking help for mental health problems and secondly to validate whether the Lost in Space model was adaptable as a theoretical model of the help-seeking process described in the included articles in this scoping review. A scoping review was conducted in which we searched for literature on mental health help-seeking with a user perspective published between 2010 and 2020 in different databases. From the 2905 studies identified, we selected 12 articles for inclusion. The review showed how young people experience unfamiliarity and insecurity with regard to issues related to mental health and help-seeking. A strong wish for self-reliance and to safe-guard one’s own health were consistent among young people. Support structures were often regarded as inaccessible and unresponsive. There was a high level of conformity between the model on help-seeking and the analysed articles, reinforcing that help-seeking is a dynamic and psychosocial process.

1. Introduction

Young people’s mental health is a major public health issue. Mental health problems among young people contribute to impaired physical and mental health extending into adulthood [ 1 , 2 , 3 ]. Promoting young people’s mental health is an integral component in ensuring their development and improving health and social wellbeing across their lifespan [ 3 ]. In light of the high rate of mental health problems among this group, a corresponding high rate of help-seeking and use of support resources might be assumed; however, few young people actually seek and eventually access professional help. Delays in looking for help can be lengthy and are prevalent even in countries with good access to healthcare [ 4 , 5 , 6 , 7 , 8 , 9 ]. The process of searching for support involves barriers that relate to both individual and social context factors [ 8 , 10 ]. This contributes to the complexity involved in offering interventions to support them and highlights the need to understand the help-seeking process, whether online or in person, for young people with mental health problems.

Help-seeking is usually described as a rational, agency-based process where the individual plans, decides and acts on symptoms [ 11 ]. However, research also describes that help-seeking is not solely an individual act; rather, it is influenced by social factors throughout the process. Societal, organizational support structures set the limits and stipulate the opportunities to seek help [ 12 ]. Help-seeking thus depends both on factors at the individual level and structural resources for young people. Many studies that examine help-seeking for mental health among young people using cross-sectional designs on either the general community, or school populations [ 8 , 13 ] are based on descriptive data that is often generated through surveys, and focus on attitudes, rather than on experiences [ 14 ]. The main focus of previous literature has been on individual factors, such as mental health literacy, and less information can be found on the structural factors involved [ 8 , 13 ]. This calls for a deeper and more nuanced understanding of young people’s mental health help-seeking regarding contextual factors, with particular focus on their experiences and perspectives. An improved understanding of help-seeking for mental health problems can be used to improve practice and service delivery, and ultimately benefit young people’s mental health.

In this study, qualitative research exploring the help-seeking process in Sweden from the perspectives of young people with mental health problems was used as the theoretical point of departure [ 15 ]. Within this previous research, we produced a theoretical model of help-seeking, the Lost in Space model [ 15 ]. It showed how help-seeking was a long, non-sequential and dynamic process. In this research, young people described a process of moving in and out of the three help-seeking phases, Drifting, Navigating and Docking. Drifting was characterized by insecurity and unfamiliarity, with a lack of knowledge of mental health and the support system; Navigating was characterized by structural obstacles, a fragmented support system and wishes for help; while Docking was characterized by experiences of finding help. For the purpose of confirmability and usefulness, it is essential to validate and understand if the model can be applied to other settings and contexts—for example, whether the model is consistent with the experiences of help-seeking by young people in other countries. Therefore, the aim of this study was twofold, firstly to map the published literature on young people’s experiences of seeking help for mental health problems and secondly to validate whether the previously published Lost in Space model was adaptable as a theoretical model of the help-seeking process described in the included articles in this scoping review.

A scoping review was deemed the most preferable approach to responding to this broad area of interest [ 16 ]. Scoping reviews maintain a broad window for inclusion of studies of a range of types and levels of quality [ 17 ]. Our scoping review protocol was developed using the scoping review methodological framework proposed by Arksey and and O’Malley, entailing five framework stages. The framework was further developed by Levac, with a qualitative elaboration of the material [ 17 , 18 ]. These stages provide a clear sequential order in which to identify and collect studies, chart the data and report results, and the scoping review protocol was used for guiding the research.

2.1. Stage 1: Identifying the Research Question

A multidisciplinary research team with experience of health science research, including public health, nursing, and youth research was assembled to discuss and clarify the scope of inquiry and identify research questions. The target population of interest was defined as young people (ages 11–25) with experience of mental health problems, and experience of help-seeking in that regard. Mental health problems were defined as commonly experienced problems of depression or anxiety, as well as behavioural and emotional problems. Considering the concept of help-seeking, the term is used to understand the delay of care and to explore possible pathways for mental health promotion. For this study, help-seeking was defined as seeking and/or accessing professional help for mental health problems. Conceptually, help-seeking was regarded as a process influenced by social, psychological and contextual factors [ 12 ]. The research questions for this study were (1) to map general characteristics of published literature focusing on the young people’s experiences of seeking help for mental health problems, and (2) to explore how the previously published theoretical model Lost in Space could be further refined and complemented via an abductive approach, drawing the final set of categories and themes informed by the papers reviewed in this study.

2.2. Stage 2: Identifying Relevant Studies

A search strategy was developed in collaboration with a librarian to develop search terms using subject heading terms adapted to each of the three included databases: Medline/PubMed, PsycINFO and CINAHL. The search terms for the target population were adolescents, young and emerging adults; for the health outcome, they were mental health, depression, anxiety, and for the concept of interest, the term was help-seeking. Other criteria were limiting searches to studies written in English, and studies being published between 2010 and 2020 due to rapidly evolving research and policy changes in this area as well as the increased rates of mental health problems among young people. The searches were conducted during summer 2020. See Table S1 (Supplementary Materials) for the full search strategy.

Inclusion and Exclusion Criteria

Studies were eligible for inclusion if they investigated help-seeking among young people with mental health problems aged between 11 and 25. Only studies that specifically investigated young people’s own perspectives of experiencing or having experienced mental health problems and help-seeking were included. Since the intention was to understand help-seeking among young people with common mental health problems, studies on particular target groups or populations were excluded, such as studies on specific treatment interventions. Likewise, studies focusing on help-seeking attitudes or potential help-seeking intentions of general populations without personal experience of mental health help-seeking were excluded. Studies had to specifically focus on adolescents or young people; thus, studies with a more population-based perspective, or encompassing wider age groups, were excluded. Theses were not included as it was assumed that any material within a thesis on help-seeking, that otherwise fitted the inclusion criteria, would appear as published articles. Comments, editorials, consensus statements and other opinion-based papers were excluded, along with studies solely exploring the perspectives of others, other than the help-seekers themselves (e.g., families, helpers, professionals, etc.).

2.3. Stage 3: Study Selection

All identified studies from the searches were imported to the management reference tool EndNote, version 20.1, and duplicates were removed. Screening was carried out with a sequential, stepped approach and an iterative process between the authors of the study [ 18 ]. In the first step of study selection, titles and periodically abstracts were screened by KHW, who discarded obviously irrelevant studies based on the exclusion criteria. In the second step of study selection, abstracts of the remaining studies were screened independently by three of the authors (KHW, PS and MN) to determine eligibility based on the defined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Disagreements between the authors were discussed with a fourth author (JN) until consensus was reached. The third step required KHW to examine the full-text of the remaining articles to determine eligibility, subsequently discussing the articles with all authors. A PRISMA diagram ( Figure 1 ) details the screening process with number of papers retrieved and selection of the included studies.

Article search and selection process—PRISMA diagram.

2.4. Stage 4: Charting the Data

Data charting was conducted in accordance with scoping review standards using a template that was developed for the extraction of information from each study regarding the following: authorship, year of publication, journal, source of origin, design, population and age group, aims of the study, methodology and important results [ 17 ]. A descriptive, numerical summarization was made, presenting the extent, nature and scope of included studies [ 18 ], see Table S2 (Supplementary Materials) for the full bibliographic information of the included studies.

2.5. Stage 5: Collating, Summarizing and Reporting Results

A qualitative thematic analysis was conducted to examine and aggregate the findings from the help-seeking process, as depicted in the included studies [ 18 ]. For the thematic analysis, an abductive approach was taken [ 19 ], based on the previous Lost in Space model [ 15 ]. According to such an approach, hypotheses can be explicated through deduction and verified through induction. Abduction thus means that new explanations are based on background theories and, whilst taking empirical material and restrictions into account, may lead to elaborated knowledge [ 19 ].

The analysis began with reading the findings in the included articles several times, then identifying and inductively coding text and quotes [ 20 ] in relation to young people’s experiences of seeking help for mental health problems. In this phase, data were inductively scrutinized to discover experiences, expressions and perspectives, keeping codes close to the data; for example, the text ‘Some young people reported that discussing uncomfortable emotions was unfamiliar’ was coded as the theme Unfamiliarity. The deductive process followed, in which the theoretical model Lost in Space was employed. It describes help-seeking among young people with mental health problems in a Swedish context [ 15 ]. A categorization matrix was developed based on the model, emanating from the original subcategories and categories, the themes within the subcategories and the properties of themes. The deductive process in the analysis involved going back to the data and placing the inductively derived codes into themes and subcategories of the theoretical model. All themes from the original model were found through coding the analysed articles. Codes from the new material that did not match the original theoretical model subcategories contributed with new aspects to existing themes of the model and, in some cases, generated new themes, thereby broadening the understanding of help-seeking. In one instance, the name of one subcategory was altered to reflect new material. KWH performed the data analysis and, to enhance the quality and validity of the analysis, the data analysis was discussed continuously with all authors.

3.1. Mapping the Characteristics of Published Literature

In total, 1540 articles were identified as potentially relevant records, after duplicates were removed through the database searches. After the first screening of title and abstract, 1207 articles were excluded on the basis of age, format type, content (i.e., not dealing with help-seeking), focusing on specific populations or not being based on a user perspective. In the second round of screening, another 243 articles were excluded due to the eligibility criteria. In the third round of screening, the remaining 90 articles were reviewed in full-text and of these 12 articles met the full set of eligibility criteria.

The characteristics of the included studies are described in Table S2 (Supplementary Materials) . Seven articles were published between 2010 and 2015, and five after 2016. The designs were mostly qualitative, with individual interviews ( n = 9) and focus groups ( n = 7). Seven articles employed a combination of methods (for example, mixed methods), and two articles included information from surveys. The focus of articles covered: social and organizational factors impacting help-seeking, functional concerns, attitudes towards computerized mental health support, attitudes to consulting primary care, perceptions and help-seeking behaviours in schools, exploration and identification of barriers and facilitators in general populations with and without previous experience of mental health support, barriers and facilitators in male groups, links between masculinity and help-seeking, comparisons of groups’ help-seeking strategies and descriptions of experiences, self-management and help-seeking. The recruitment of participants varied, utilising educational settings ( n = 4), youth mental health services ( n = 2), community websites ( n = 1), primary care ( n = 1), youth services ( n = 2), previous participation in longitudinal studies ( n = 2) and community samples ( n = 3). Four articles focused specifically on young males, and four on barriers to help-seeking. Three articles were set in the USA, one in Canada, three in Australia and five in Europe. The age range, 11–25, was seen in a variation of age clusters, with the smallest age range being two years (ages 20–22) and the largest 13 years (ages 12–25); the mean age range covered was six years.

3.2. Examination of the Help-Seeking Process from the Perspectives of Young People

The findings from this examination showed a high level of agreement with the theoretical model Lost in Space. Overall, the results showed that help-seeking was a dynamic and psychosocial process without sequentially fixed stages, where young people expressed an unfamiliarity with, insecurity about and lack of knowledge of mental health issues, a longing for self-reliance and, in some contexts, a presence of stigma. Young people did not consider the support structures to be responsive or accessible. Below, Figure 2 outlines the examination of the help-seeking process from the perspectives of young people. It includes confirmed content of the old model, new content derived from the analysed articles, and elaborations according to the abductive method. The ‘number of meaning units’ refers to coded material in the analysed articles. ‘Original’ refers to subcategories and themes from the Lost in Space model, where findings were corroborated by codes from the analysed articles (‘confirmed content’), other elements that emerged showed further dimensions of experiences that contributed to new perspectives of established subcategories in the model (‘new content’), and some themes that emerged in the analysis were not readily encompassed within the subcategories in the original model (‘new’) (see Figure 2 ).

Examination of the help-seeking process from young people’s perspectives.

3.2.1. Drifting

Drifting, the initial category of the Lost in Space model, encompassed a general feeling of unfamiliarity, lack of knowledge, trivialising oneself and problems due to insecurity often by normalizing and minimizing one’s experiences. Young people’s voices in the analysed articles corroborated Drifting well, through similar expressions and experiences.

Fumbling in Life

In the original model, Fumbling in life encompassed themes of unfamiliarity, insecurity and trivialisation. Likewise, young people in the analysed articles expressed unfamiliarity with both mental health problems and not recognizing oneself. Lack of knowledge was frequently described both with regard to communicating, distinguishing and assessing emotions but also regarding where and when to seek help, leading to a sense of insecurity. Because of this insecurity, young people practised trivialisation, trying to make their problems smaller or unimportant. They also had the impression and fear that their problems would not be sufficient to receive support. In some of the analysed articles, trivialisation was presented as a rational strategy, enabling young people to downplay their problems and rationalizing not actively dealing with them or approaching others for help, whereas, in the original model, trivialisation was carried out due to a sense of insecurity. In this section, no conceptual changes to the original model are suggested.

In the original model, Struggling was characterized by simultaneous descriptions of mental health problems and incessant attempts and strategies to feel better, ambivalence and a longing for self-reliance. These themes re-appeared in the included articles. Mental health problems were described by the participants as emotional problems, panic attacks, sadness, self-harm, anxiety and lack of motivation. Within Struggling in the original model, young people usually referred to mental health problems as being something “within” (internal) rather than originating “outside” (global). However, in several of the analysed articles, the mental health problems were attributed to something “outside”. Hence, young people also related mental health problems to relationships, stress and risk-taking behaviour.

Themes on endeavouring strategies trying to deal with mental health problems were common in the included studies, as was also the case in the Lost in Space model, pointing to the more-or-less continual and relentless attempts and strategies young people performed in order to deal with their problems. Although it was proposed by young people in individual studies that seeking help requires effort, lack of effort was not a dominant issue for young people in either the original model or in most analysed articles. In some articles, an in-depth exploration of the strategies employed was undertaken, according to having an ‘approach’ or ‘avoidant’ character, or gendered differences, adding to the variation in strategies, whereas in the model, an abundance of strategies was ascertained; however, the type of strategy was not explored. Denial was a common strategy in both the original model and in the included articles. In the Lost in Space model, this was described as “shutting off”, with the intent of ignoring feelings and problems. This strategy was directed towards oneself: wanting to manage things, being strong and coping. In some of the analysed articles, denial was presented as relating to a sense of embarrassment, or as being done in order to protect others. Several reasons were attributed to this phenomenon: that young people did not want to trouble others, did not want to burden or alarm others, and did not trust others. In the model, reasons for denial were differentiated by a sense of responsibility, enacted by, for example, not sharing information with family and friends. Withholding information thus seemed to relate to aspects additional to a sense of responsibility and self-reliance.

A frequent theme in both the original model and in the findings from the included articles was self-reliance. Statements of wanting to be strong, trying to cope on one’s own, not sharing information and an elevated sense of responsibility to manage one’s life and mental health problems were evident. Ambivalence as a theme recurred throughout the material, in both the included studies and the original model. Young people expressed simultaneous and contradictory feelings and thoughts towards both themselves and their problems, others and help-seeking per se. They were often hesitant to seek help, whilst at the same time expressing a need and a longing for help.

The analysis of the included articles suggested no major conceptual changes to the original model, although the themes Endavouring strategies and Mental health problems are both elaborated.

Reaching a Point of No Return

Within Reaching a point of no return in the original model, young people expressed deterioration and a reaching out for support, often with the help of others. In Lost in Space, others were called ’catalysts’, showcasing their importance in actually initiating a help-seeking process. Within the analysed articles, important others were consistently brought up by the young people, with examples of others coaching, supporting, guiding and, in some instances, taking control of the help-seeking process. A new perspective in the included articles was a negative perception of control, and how others exerted control over them, compelling them to seek help. While this aspect of negative control did not emerge in the original model, an elaboration of the model may expand on the various functions of the important others, e.g., by dividing them into controllers vs. supporters. The other theme in this subcategory, deterioration, was brought up in several articles, as in the Lost in Space model. This indicated a worsening of symptoms and a decreased ability to function. Young people described not leaving the house, escalated behavioural problems, self-harm and suicide attempts, or ‘having a melt-down’ as triggers for seeking help. Young people also described how their problems were ‘revealed’ and others became aware of their problems, which in turn led to seeking help.

The included articles emphasise that seeking help is often a long process that takes place during a prolonged time-span. Therefore, in this section, a change of title of the subcategory Reaching a point of no return, to Transitioning towards decision, is suggested.

3.2.2. Navigating

The category Navigating depicted attempts of trying to find support, personal reflections, hopes and longings and wrestling with structural barriers. Expressions from young people in the analysed articles conformed well with the subcategories Trying to dock and Wrestling with structure.

Trying to Dock

This subcategory in the Lost in Space model entailed descriptions of personal reflections, hopes, longings and disappointment when trying to seek support. All themes from the original model were exemplified in the included articles. Hopes for help, as well as being safe, noticed and understood, were common in the included articles, as were accounts of the opposite, feeling unsupported. Miscommunication while not being understood or listened to also appeared in both materials as did accounts of being treated like a child and not taken seriously, thus containing references to issues of power. Several analysed articles contained descriptions by young people on how support was perceived as impersonal and instrumental rather than person-centred. This added aspects of negative references to professionalism and reliance on medication. Young people expressed the importance of reframing negative and medical terminology in positive and informal terms. Both materials contained descriptions of young people feeling unsupported, which led to continued and continual efforts of seeking support. A new theme, trust, was identified in the thematic analysis from descriptions of lack of confidence in treatment, and how familiarity facilitated help-seeking. A lack of trust was depicted as arising from limited prior contact, from anxiety about seeking help, from concerns about professional competence and from negative perceptions of professionals. Within the theme of trust in the articles, concerns about confidentiality and parental involvement surfaced, whereas, in the original model, these concerns were interpreted as structural obstacles.

Common themes in the articles were stigma and shame, whereas in the original model, this was not pervasive. The included articles relayed young people’s strong sense of shame about seeking help. They perceived it as a display of weakness. Fear of social consequences, ridicule and a longing to fit in led young people to describe a feeling of shame or embarrassment, and to having thoughts of what others would think and say. They also made efforts to conceal both mental health problems and help-seeking. Articles focusing exclusively on males stressed the gendered aspect of this, claiming that this group was affected by masculine ideals of strength and autonomy, which hindered displays of weakness and prevented help-seeking. In the original model, some findings relating to this theme were described; however, the term stigma was never used. Instead, this was described in the subcategory Wrestling with structure, in relation to seeking support in school, with references of embarrassment and an undesirable show of weakness in front of peers.

In this section, the analysed articles provide more aspects on the Feeling unsupported and Miscommunication themes. The large presence of codes in the new material relating to Stigma and Trust suggests the incorporation of Stigma and Trust as unique themes into the model.

Wrestling with Structure

In both the original model and the analysed articles, there were multiple references to structural obstacles, such as access, waiting times, resources, continuity, inadequate chains of support, and lack of coordination between supporters. Young people voiced feelings of not being met by professionals in an appropriate and timely manner, and concerns about how they were passed on, being referred to other support structures, and how there was a perceived lack of resources, making access difficult. Help-seeking was described as inconsistent, with repeated attempts at initiating and discontinuing help. Young people in several articles, and the original model, expressed that primary care was not an option when seeking support. Primary care was regarded as handling physical health complaints and that its practitioners were not being skilled in mental health issues. Particularly for the ‘younger’ of the young people, expressions that primary care was not directed at their age group were voiced. The inadequate support services theme was thus corroborated by young people in other contexts.

Confidentiality and age issues were concerns for the young people, both within the original model and the thematic analysis, primarily relating to parental control and insight. Both materials contained descriptions of how young people assumed and were concerned that confidential information shared with professional supporters would be communicated to parents. In some articles, this was said to relate to the theme of trust; however, confidentiality was mainly related to being a minor lacking power. Young people also voiced that being a minor was as an obstacle for independently accessing help. Likewise, age was an issue for the ‘older’ young people, who reported feeling out-of-place at youth-specific services. In the original model, a sense of resignation, often related to difficulties accessing support and feeling unsupported, was evident. The included articles provided additional material relating to this, as a sense of powerlessness appeared in several subcategories, and in the process as a whole.

The analysis supported a clearer conceptual division between subcategories Wrestling with structure and Trying to dock in the model. The latter entailed primarily personal accounts and experiences, expressions of hopes, disappointments and recounts of feelings, and the former referred primarily to structural conditions. Recurring references in relation to powerlessness suggest this is elevated to a permeating theme, capturing young people’s experience of seeking help.

3.2.3. Docking

Docking in the original model contained references from young people to the subcategories Finding support and Changing as a person.

Finding Support

All original themes of the subcategory Finding support were found in the thematic analysis. In both the original model and the analysed articles, young people described experiences of being validated, accepted, recognized and listened to. The importance of the comfort of support and initial positive contact was stressed. Descriptions of good and bad supporters and preferences regarding, for example, gender and profession, were evident. Both materials contained descriptions of negative outcomes and unwanted consequences from having sought help; for example, in the original model, this was described as problems being exaggerated and social services becoming involved. In the analysed articles were descriptions of referrals to support services appearing as punitive rather than helpful. This subcategory also contained accounts in both the analysed articles and the original model of young people being disregarded and not being taken seriously.

In this section, no changes to the model are suggested.

Changing as a Person

In the original model, this subcategory described the consequences of successful help-seeking in the form of gaining knowledge and positive personal change. Young people in the original model stressed the positive aspects and changes after having experienced mental health problems. Some references were found in the articles with regard to this subcategory, with personal change depicted as finding a more positive outlook on life through one’s own determination and decisiveness.

In this section, the analysed articles provide more aspects on the theme Changing as a person, but no changes to the model are suggested.

Overall, the findings from the analysis aided in developing an elaborated model of help-seeking, Figure 3 . The overall notion of help-seeking as a fluid and dynamic process with the three categories Drifting, Navigating and Docking was reinforced.

Elaborated and further developed theoretical model of help-seeking among young people for mental health problems.

4. Discussion

This scoping review aimed to map published literature on young people’s experiences of seeking help for mental health problems, and to validate whether the previously published model Lost in Space was adaptable as a theoretical model of the help-seeking process. A high level of conformity was found between help-seeking as depicted by the original Lost in Space model and the analysed articles of this study. The analysis reinforced that help-seeking is to be regarded as a fluid and psychosocial process, often experienced by users as unfamiliar and obstacle-laden, tainted by feelings of powerlessness [ 21 , 22 , 23 , 24 ].

4.1. Discussion and Implications in Relation to the Original Model Lost in Space

After reviewing up-to-date literature on user perspectives of help-seeking for mental health problems among young people, it is clear that the depiction of the initial stage of help-seeking, as being characterized by a sense of drifting, was, to a large extent, corroborated from young people’s experiences described in the reviewed articles. Regardless of context, young people expressed a general feeling of unfamiliarity and a lack of knowledge, often coupled with a sense of insecurity, and trivialisation of experiences [ 21 , 22 , 23 , 25 , 26 , 27 , 28 , 29 , 30 ]. This was also supported by a large number of codes and expressions relating to the endeavouring strategies theme in an effort to be self-reliant [ 22 , 23 , 25 , 26 , 27 , 28 , 29 , 30 , 31 ]. This points to the more-or-less continual and relentless nature of the efforts of young people to deal with their problems. A strong wish for self-reliance was consistently stressed in the reviewed articles, with a large variation and number of strategies used to implement self-reliance and deal with mental health problems. Incorporating an elaboration regarding the characteristics of strategies—whether positive/negative, destructive/constructive or approach/avoidant strategies—would provide an additional perspective on how mental health is dealt with by young people. The reviewed articles confirmed that reaching a decision to seek help often takes place with the aid of others [ 21 , 22 , 23 , 24 , 25 , 29 , 31 , 32 ] and distinction between ‘controllers’ and ‘supporters’ in this regard may further elaborate the model. Re-naming of the subcategory Reaching a point of no return into Transitioning towards decision would reflect the transitional nature of the mental health help-seeking process.

The category Navigating, capturing both personal experiences and structural barriers, was well confirmed by the review. Reflections of not being met by professionals in an appropriate and timely manner, and observations of a perceived lack of resources making access difficult, surfaced in both the original model and the included articles [ 23 , 26 , 29 ]. Accounts of not being taken seriously, being treated like a child, not listened to and disregarded, indicating power-issues relating to the experiences of young people, as well as descriptions of inconsistent use of support, repeatedly initiating and discontinuing help, appeared in the original model as well as the included articles [ 22 , 26 , 28 , 29 ]. Stigma and Trust surfaced as new themes, and Stigma in particular appeared with a large number of codes in the analysed articles. Young people described a feeling of shame, embarrassment, thoughts of what others would think and say and various efforts to conceal both mental health problems and their help-seeking [ 21 , 22 , 23 , 25 , 26 , 27 , 28 , 31 ]. Several articles dealt exclusively with young men and boys, proposing that the reasons for not seeking help were strongly conditioned by gender, with masculine ideals of strength and autonomy acting as obstacles for help-seeking [ 21 , 23 , 28 , 31 ]. Similar findings emerged in the Lost in Space model, where issues of self-reliance, wanting to be strong, and shunning displays of weakness, were shared between participants, and were not gender specific. Cultural variations may account for this difference between studies and findings. This said, most participants in studies on help-seeking are female and the findings may translate poorly to other populations and contexts. Help-seeking is exceptionally low among boys and young men, which in itself calls for a focus on specific populations with particularly low help-seeking [ 33 , 34 ].

The latter part of the original model, Docking, was not as well corroborated through the analysis. There were few descriptions of actually finding support and even fewer of personal reflections on the effects of finding help [ 21 , 22 , 31 ]. It may be that research on the help-seeking process does not focus on support and is discontinued as soon as support is established, and aspects of this may be found in other literature on service utilization or treatment satisfaction. However, by dividing the help-seeking journey into smaller isolated fractions, focus on the process as a whole could be missed, resulting in a stunted model and less understanding of the help-seeking process. Overall, the included articles reinforced the model of help-seeking as a dynamic and psychosocial process, consisting of different stages but without being sequentially fixed.

4.2. Discussion and Implications in Practice

This review on help-seeking for common mental health problems included young people from the age of 11 to 25, thus also including young adults. The studies described in the included articles were based on varied recruitment strategies from different contexts. No specific patterns according to age or context could be discerned. The concerns voiced in the studies included themes on structural barriers of the support system, an unfamiliarity and lack of knowledge of mental health and the support system, and simultaneously, a wish for self-reliance, suggesting possible strategies for meeting the help-seeking needs of young people. Although this study aimed to include articles focusing on groups that were wide enough to be defined as population-based, the focus of the included articles tended to be on particular populations, stressing the vulnerability and poor help-seeking of one particular group. Thus, the research had ethno-centric tendencies, whereas there were large overlaps and resemblances of experiences by young people in the help-seeking process regardless of contexts. The attribution of non-help-seeking to stigma and cultural norms amongst Black, Latino and Chinese American youth was observed by others, pointing to this being a more general, rather than group-specific phenomenon [ 32 ].

Structural factors, and how young people experience the support system, play an important role in the help-seeking process. Despite different contexts, young people expressed similar concerns relating to issues of availability and accessibility. There were views that waiting times were too long, resources were too few, and in some contexts, that costs and distances posed problems [ 21 , 23 , 25 , 26 , 28 , 29 ]. Other research has shown that there is a perceived inaccessibility of the support system across different groups of young people regarding resources, entry requirements and coordination between services [ 13 ]. Structural obstacles stretch over different geographical and socio-economic backgrounds at the macro level, with high-income countries still showing substantial delays and poor help-seeking rates for young people [ 14 , 35 ]. Thus, even in favourable circumstances, young people perceive structural barriers, pointing to how the support system does not accommodate the fluid and changeable nature of help-seeking. Young people regard mental health as a complex social and relational matter [ 36 ]. They often present with diagnostically confusing symptoms, and support systems that are traditionally organized according to medical specialities may not meet the needs of young people with common mental health problems [ 37 ]. Integrated youth centres, focusing on meeting young people’s needs in one place through multidisciplinary support with consideration of the context, show promising results [ 38 , 39 ]. In comparison to traditional support, which is by definition siloed and often entails entry requirements according to diagnostic thresholds, integrated youth-friendly services seem to increase help-seeking and access to support, even among groups that are usually hard to reach [ 33 , 39 ]. Studies in a Swedish context have pointed out that youth health clinics providing services to build upon with multi-professional teams and expertise on mental health are available throughout Sweden [ 40 ].

Young people reported a lack of knowledge on mental health and the support system, leading to a sense of insecurity and possibly a delay of help-seeking. Improved health literacy among young people may facilitate help-seeking through mechanisms of awareness of service availability and symptom recognition [ 13 ]. However, improved help-seeking and mental health among young people may require more than only improved knowledge. Previous reviews have, for example, shown past positive experiences and outcomes of help-seeking and positive contacts with support professionals to be facilitators for seeking help [ 4 , 8 ]. At the same time, a preference for self-reliance when facing mental health problems is consistently reported, with this being particularly prominent in studies with participants having previous experience of mental health problems and mental health support, contradicting the findings of past experiences facilitating help-seeking [ 8 , 23 ]. Young women in particular seem to have poor expectations regarding therapeutic outcomes, signalling a lack of trust in professional supporters, with treatment being perceived as impersonal and protocol-driven [ 23 ]. The results of this study identified the importance of supporters’ ability to meet young people responsively, using a person-centred approach. Young people felt more comfortable when the supporters did not use medical language and emphasized the importance of using positive and informal terms for improving communication between the young person and the supporter. Other studies have confirmed this finding, underlining the importance of having young staff who are skilled, respectful, welcoming, and allow for participation and shared decision-making [ 39 ].

With this review showing how young people experience mental health help-seeking as a psychosocial and fluid process, often with lack of knowledge and a sense of insecurity, prompt consideration of the organization of present support systems is needed. Young people need to be met in a person-centred and flexible manner. Perhaps, this is where the greatest effort is needed, addressing issues of power from the perspectives of young people, improving opportunities for personal self-reliance and personalized support.

5. Methodological Considerations

This review has some limitations. The choice of databases and keywords was developed in accordance with an experienced health literature librarian; however, making a choice always entails the risk that some information may have been missed. Other databases and different keywords may have produced different results. The criteria for including articles were that they should deal with the direct perspectives of young people who had experienced mental health problems and/or help-seeking. Whilst excluding those who had no experience of help-seeking (thus all articles dealing with intentions to seeking help only) might have been a clear-cut and easy choice, that would also have meant that we excluded those with experience of mental health problems who had not sought help for various reasons; thus, avoidance is also a perspective that is worth taking into consideration.

We aimed to include studies focusing on groups wide enough to be defined as population-based; nevertheless, these still often utilized an ethnocentric perspective, such as having a particular ethnic descent. This automatically raises the issue of generalizability and transferability. It was evident that studies consistently focused on particular populations, stressing the vulnerability and poor help-seeking of this particular group. However, similar claims kept reappearing, regardless of which particular group was being studied. A noteworthy phenomenon is that all included articles were published in Western countries. This also limits the transferability of the findings, as young people around the world may be situated in significantly different contexts.

In order to limit bias, the work was conducted by alternating methods of individual and joint reviews. However, subjectivity is a relevant issue that the authors of this review could not completely avoid.

6. Conclusions and Implication

The field of help-seeking among young people for mental health problems is receiving growing attention in research and academic literature. However, this review shows that there is substantial heterogeneity among studies with regard to methods, populations and how help-seeking is investigated. In qualitative literature exploring user perspectives, help-seeking is depicted as a fluid, dynamic and psychosocial process, validating the theoretical model of Lost in Space. Important findings include the presence of stigma, a lack of knowledge of mental health issues, a longing for self-reliance and a sense of powerlessness expressed by young people in various contexts and countries. Paying attention to these findings would imply acknowledging young people’s sense of feeling lost, making support services more flexible and person-centred.

Acknowledgments

Caroline Karlsson greatly contributed with the graphical model.

Supplementary Materials

The following are available online at https://www.mdpi.com/article/10.3390/ijerph19031430/s1 , Table S1, full search strategy, Table S2, characteristics of included studies.

Author Contributions

All authors (K.H.W., M.N., J.M.N. and P.S.) made significant contributions to the original paper. K.H.W., M.N., J.M.N. and P.S. together identified the research question and designed the study. The data search was conducted by K.H.W., and stepped screening was performed by K.H.W., M.N., J.M.N. and P.S. In addition, K.H.W. drafted the manuscript and M.N., J.M.N. and P.S. provided critical revision of the paper in terms of important intellectual content. All authors have read and agreed to the published version of the manuscript.

This research received no external funding.

Institutional Review Board Statement

This study did not require ethical clearance.

Informed Consent Statement

Not applicable.

Data Availability Statement

Conflicts of interest.

The authors declare no conflict of interest.

Publisher’s Note: MDPI stays neutral with regard to jurisdictional claims in published maps and institutional affiliations.

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Trusted Health Information from the National Institutes of Health

Teens are talking about mental health

High schoolers' stories give a glimpse into the national crisis.

Adolescence can be a complicated time, especially for mental health, and some teens want their communities to do more in response.

The prevalence of mental health issues is hard to measure, but federal data show how widespread the challenges are. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said we need to address threats to mental health in young people—especially adolescents.

More than one third (37%) of high schoolers in the United States reported experiencing poor mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic, according to a 2021 CDC study . Almost half (44%) of high schoolers reported feeling persistently sad or hopeless in the last year. Some of these feelings were also linked to experiences of racism, social stigma around gender and sexual identity, and sexual violence.

"I was also having issues with my friendships at school and an increased level of stress when it came time for tests, projects, and other assessments…the feeling of isolation, lack of appetite, and absolute hatred of school were not normal." –Morgan, New Jersey

Studies like these can help shed light on issues that teens may be hesitant or unable to discuss with parents, doctors , and school staff.

Stigma and a lack of information or access to care also keep many teens from getting help. But sharing personal stories about mental health can offer encouragement and connection. This can help teens feel like they are not alone. That’s why NIH asked high schoolers to describe these challenges in their own words for the 2022 Speaking Up About Mental Health! essay contest.

The contest was sponsored by the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), the National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities (NIMHD), and the Eunice Kennedy Shriver  National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD). They wanted to start conversations around youth mental health and highlight different aspects of this national health crisis.

In their essays, many students talked about feeling lost, embarrassed, or frustrated by their mental health struggles. Others wrote about going from being confident in early childhood to feeling alone or unseen in adolescence.

NIH-funded researcher Tamar Mendelson, M.A., Ph.D., Bloomberg Professor of American Health and Director for the Center for Adolescent Health at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, says that’s not surprising. Depression rates tend to increase around puberty, especially among girls but also in boys. Dr. Mendelson said this can be caused by a combination of hormonal changes, new social relationships, and new pressures from academic, athletic, and other activities.

"For many Asian American youths, getting help for mental health can be hindered by stereotypes.  Asian American boys, in particular, may not seek therapy since their cultures expect them to be more resilient than girls. After all, as the older brother, how can I let my little sister know when I am not feeling well emotionally?" –Evan, Texas

“Young people who are feeling overwhelmed or are not sure how to cope with emotions may be more likely to use substances to kind of help with that,” Dr. Mendelson said. Such substances could include alcohol, tobacco, or prescription or illicit drugs, for example.

Puberty is also when many young people become more aware of their sexual orientations and gender identities. For some, this can lead to being unaccepted or bullied. Rates of substance use and misuse also tend to increase during puberty.

In addition to navigating the typical stressors that teens face, more recently they also had to cope with the COVID-19 pandemic and related family losses or financial struggles. They’ve experienced or witnessed racial- and identity-based discrimination, gun violence, political unrest, natural disasters, and climate change. These challenges coupled with other risk factors, including some parenting styles, can lead to mental health issues such as anxiety and depression.

Even though environmental triggers have changed over time, adolescent anxiety was rising even before the pandemic.

Michele Ybarra, Ph.D., an adjunct professor of mental health at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health and also an NIH-supported researcher, said that not long ago, it was widely believed that youth could not have depression because people thought, “What do [they] have to be depressed about?”

"Schools are places where students should feel safe and comfortable enough to ask for help. By using simple technology and dedicating time toward impactful mental health screening, schools can truly serve students and assist them in living happier, healthier lives." –Huda, North Carolina

But in the last several decades, Dr. Ybarra said, mental health professionals have realized that depression can happen to anyone at any age.

Several students wrote about schools with limited, outdated, or no education on the topic. Some said they could not speak to a therapist or school counselor when they needed to.

The issue is worse for students in rural areas , in schools with limited financial resources, or who need culturally appropriate care such as bilingual mental health information.

But digital tools can connect youth to information about their mental health. For example, Dr. Ybarra said, the rise of telehealth and teletherapy since the pandemic has helped increase access for some.

Dr. Ybarra said that while technology (including social media) can have both positive and negative effects on mental health, it can also be a force for good. The nature of relationships has changed in the internet age, and connecting online is natural for adolescents . Options like crisis lines or online therapy can get help to teens quickly.

Multiple students said when they could not find resources from their schools or communities, they started their own. Some also said their experiences have inspired them to study mental health and treatments after high school.

One student said they began volunteering for a teen crisis hotline after their cousin used the same service for help. The student also joined a youth advisory group for their state governor’s office and offered help as a peer-to-peer counselor at their school.

“My passion towards becoming a researcher on psychiatric disorders is stronger than ever,” they wrote.

The way people talk about mental illness could also be better, one student wrote . They preferred the phrase “living” with a mental illness rather than “suffering” from one. This small change in language signals it’s possible for people with such conditions to live happy and fulfilling lives. This student also said their own school began marking mental health-related absences as excused and holding an annual mental health week to encourage open conversation.

It’s too early to tell what the long-term effects of the past few years will have on youth mental health. But Dr. Ybarra said some teens have become more resilient since the pandemic began.

“I don’t think this generation is doomed in any way,” she said. “Several kids have said [the pandemic] really gave them the time to better understand themselves, they better understand their sexuality … Other kids took on new hobbies, and they learned how to do new things. Maybe they gave themselves permission to not talk to that toxic person in their lives.” While there’s no denying the pandemic has been a stressful experience, Dr. Ybarra’s impression is that most teens have come out the other side with perspective and an ability to thrive.

“This is good news. It also means that we need to be diligent about identifying teens who continue to struggle and connect them to services,” she said.

If you think a teen is experiencing a mental health crisis, the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is a national, 24/7 hotline  that can connect you with a trained crisis counselor by phone or online chat. Call or text 988 to connect to a trained crisis counselor 24/7 or use the live online chat option. TTY users can contact the Lifeline via their preferred relay service or by dialing 711, then 988.   

By the numbers

According to the centers for disease control and prevention, in 2021:.

• Asian (non-Hispanic): 64%
• Black (non-Hispanic): 55%
• Multiracial (non-Hispanic): 55%
• Hispanic or Latino: 42%
• American Indian/Alaska Native (non-Hispanic): 27%
• Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander (non-Hispanic): 55%
• White (non-Hispanic): 23%
• 18% of female high schoolers and 5% of male high schoolers experienced sexual violence, up from 15% and 4%, respectively, in 2017
• Up from 41% and 21%, respectively, in 2017
• 14% of LGBQ+ high schoolers and 7% of heterosexual students did not go to school because of safety concerns

*Data set did not account for gender identity, although previous research has shown that transgender youth experience more stigma and are more likely to have more suicidal thoughts or behaviors compared to their peers.

NIH-supported research on adolescent mental health

Greater engagement in gender-sexuality alliances (gsas) and gsa characteristics predict youth empowerment and reduced mental health concerns.

This study, supported by NIMHD, focused on the connections between sexual and gender minority youth’s involvement in extracurricular activities and their mental health. Researchers focused on gender-sexuality alliances (also sometimes called gay-straight alliances), which are school-based clubs to bring young people together to discuss shared issues or interests. Learn more about this study .

Understanding Bystanders for Self-Directed Violence Prevention: A Prospective National Study Highlighting Marginalized Youth and Young Adults

Self-directed violence refers to anything a person does intentionally that can cause injury or death to themselves. This study will examine the effectiveness of programs that train youth to be “active bystanders” and help those in danger of self-directed violence. Researchers will survey approximately 5,000 participants ages 13 to 22, recruited via social media, about the impacts of these bystander training programs in real-world situations. Read more about this study .

Strategic Framework for Addressing Youth Mental Health Disparities

This plan outlines research studies and other activities by NIMH, NICHD, and NIMHD to reduce mental health disparities among underserved and underrepresented youth by 2031. Some of the plan’s goals are to develop culturally appropriate mental health interventions for youth and parents and to research co-occurring mental illness among young people in groups that have been marginalized. Read more about the framework .

Alternative accessible version (pdf)

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention ; Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report Supplement, Vol. 71, No. 3 ; CDC report shows concerning increases in sadness and exposure to violence among teen girls and LGBQ+ youth ; LGBQ+ Teens

May 16, 2023

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How to Address A Mental Health Issue or Disability On Your College Application

Applying to college can be a confusing and intimidating process for anyone. If you’re a student with a disability or history of mental health challenges, you might find the process even more so.

As a student who has a mental health issue or disability, your high school experience may have been inherently more difficult in some ways, and it has most likely been different from that of your peers. You might be unsure of how to speak about your unique challenges or struggles without sounding negative. At the same time, you may feel that your application is incomplete without addressing them. Your disability or mental health may be an integral part of your identity.

If you’re getting ready to apply to college and you’re wondering if or how to present a mental health issue or disability on your college application, this is the post for you. Here, we will discuss the factors to consider when choosing to disclose your challenges on your college application, and we will outline the various ways in which you can present these in the framework of a college application.

Should I discuss my mental health or disability on my college application?

Your mental health history or disability may be an integral part of who you are, but that does not necessarily make it relevant to a college application. For starters, it is important to know that it is actually illegal for a college to specifically ask for these types of details about your life, since doing so can be considered discrimination. Based on this reason alone, you are never required to disclose mental or physical health concerns on your application. Doing so is strictly a matter of personal choice and you should not feel that you are lying by omission if you choose to leave this information out.

Before you choose whether or not you’ll disclose your history of mental health or disability, you should think about the overall function of a college application.

Everything on a college application should contribute to an overall positive image of who you are as a student and as a member of a greater community. While you don’t need to hide integral parts of who you are, you also don’t want to share challenges that will not in any way support your application positively. This is true not only for mental health and disabilities but also for academics, extracurriculars, and other experiences. You always want to put your best foot forward and keep the focus on your strengths and most positive attributes.

That being said, mental health issues and disabilities are not inherently negative, and there is nothing to be ashamed of when discussing them. You should not feel like you need to hide these parts of your identity, but rather that you need to spin them in a positive way much the same as you would any other aspect of your application. Simply put, you want to ensure that you are presenting your true self in the best light. 

There are a few questions to consider when deciding whether you’ll include this information on your application at all. Ask yourself if your application will be confusing or incomplete if you don’t address these issues. For example, if you had to take a semester off to recover, you will obviously need to explain the gap in your transcript. Similarly, if you battled depression and failed one semester despite achieving a 4.0 GPA your senior year, you’ll need to explain the discrepancy. Never leave an admissions committee wondering what happened, since they will likely assume the worst if you don’t mention it at all.

If, after some introspection, you do find that these issues are ones that need to be addressed on your application, there are several places to do so. The specifics about why you choose to include these details in the first place will often dictate where the most appropriate place to discuss these issues is. 

When and how should I discuss my mental health or disability in my college essay?

The essay is one obvious place to include details about your mental health or disability, but you should only do so if you feel that your struggles with these issues truly define you as a person and can be included as part of a bigger picture that shows your strengths in a positive light.

Remember, the function of a college essay is not to be an autobiography. You should not be writing your life story simply to inform others of your experiences. Instead, the function of a college essay is to be part of an overall marketing package. And what are you marketing? Yourself!

Whatever you choose as an essay topic should shed light on the attributes that make you a beneficial and unique member of any community. If your struggles with mental health or disabilities are defining features of this nature, then your essay is a great place to frame them positively. If you choose to do so, focus extensively on your recovery or management of these issues, and stress your ability to overcome the challenges you have faced.

Never leave an admissions committee to wonder if you will be a liability in their community. While it is of course illegal to discriminate against applicants based on their mental health or disability, it would be nearly impossible to prove that your disclosure of these issues was a direct factor in your not being accepted. Make it a nonissue by always keeping the focus on how these issues have shaped you into a better, stronger person and emphasizing that you have fully recovered or managed your condition.

When and how should I discuss my mental health or disability in the additional information section of my college application?

If you realize that your disability or mental health is not a truly defining feature of you as a person, you will probably not include it in your essay. But if there are red flags or question marks on your application that cannot be fully understood without this information, the Additional Information section of your application is the place to discuss it.

In instances where this issue has impacted your grades, involvement in class, attendance, or ability to participate in school activities, you should provide a brief explanatory background, usually no longer than a paragraph or two.

If you are sharing information about your mental health or disability in this section, you should do so only in a factual manner. You should not offer overly detailed or emotional descriptions, but instead keep it short and to the point. Since you have already decided that this information is not worthy of including in your essay, you should feel no obligation to provide extensive details or specifics. 

For example, you might describe that you took a semester off to address a health concern that is now under control. Always emphasize your recovery or management of this condition and your readiness for college, so that the admissions committee is never left to wonder what your current status is.  

When and how should I discuss my mental health or disability in a college admissions interview?

The decision process to discuss these details in an admissions interview should be similar to the decision process to include them in your essay or the Additional Information section of your application.

If you feel that these experiences are the most defining feature of your personality and can spin them in a positive way that presents your best self, you should definitely do so during an admissions interview. On the other hand, if you feel that these issues are irrelevant to how beneficial you will be to the college community, you are under no obligation to divulge them. The only remaining reason to do so would be if part of your transcript is incomplete or confusing without this additional insight.

If you do end up discussing these challenges in your college admissions interview, frame them as you would in your essay or your Additional Information section. Make sure to discuss them in a brief, factual manner, and always emphasize your recovery or management of the issue, and your college readiness above all else.

One Final Consideration For College Applicants With Mental Health Challenges or Disabilities

Keep in mind that in addition to making your own decision about whether your personal challenges will be included on your application, you should also discuss your decision with your college counselor or any teachers who are writing recommendations for you. You need to be sure that the details you plan to include on your application are consistent with any details that your teachers might include in your recommendations.

Also keep in mind that you can always request that your teachers do not disclose any details at all about your mental health or disability. If you find no reason to mention it on your application, it’s unlikely that they would have any reason to mention it in a recommendation, either, but you should always communicate with them ahead of time to ensure that you’re on the same page.

If you’re a high school student who has struggled with mental health or disabilities, you may feel uncertain about how or even if you should disclose this information on your college application. You should know that you are not required to do so in any way, and that the final decision is always yours to make.

For more about disabilities, mental health, and the college admissions process, see these valuable CollegeVine posts:

• A Guide to Disability Accommodations for Standardized Testing    
• Getting Back On Track After a Disciplinary Setback
• Dealing with Test Anxiety
• How to Get Into a Competitive School if You Struggled in High School
• What Makes a Good Recommendation Letter?
• How Often Should I Meet with My Guidance Counselor?
• Doubt, Discouragement, and Setting Appropriate Goals in High School

Want access to expert college guidance — for free? When you create your free CollegeVine account, you will find out your real admissions chances, build a best-fit school list, learn how to improve your profile, and get your questions answered by experts and peers—all for free. Sign up for your CollegeVine account today to get a boost on your college journey.

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• Mental Health Essay

Essay on Mental Health

According to WHO, there is no single 'official' definition of mental health. Mental health refers to a person's psychological, emotional, and social well-being; it influences what they feel and how they think, and behave. The state of cognitive and behavioural well-being is referred to as mental health. The term 'mental health' is also used to refer to the absence of mental disease. 

Mental health means keeping our minds healthy. Mankind generally is more focused on keeping their physical body healthy. People tend to ignore the state of their minds. Human superiority over other animals lies in his superior mind. Man has been able to control life due to his highly developed brain. So, it becomes very important for a man to keep both his body and mind fit and healthy. Both physical and mental health are equally important for better performance and results.

Importance of Mental Health 

An emotionally fit and stable person always feels vibrant and truly alive and can easily manage emotionally difficult situations. To be emotionally strong, one has to be physically fit too. Although mental health is a personal issue, what affects one person may or may not affect another; yet, several key elements lead to mental health issues.

Many emotional factors have a significant effect on our fitness level like depression, aggression, negative thinking, frustration, and fear, etc. A physically fit person is always in a good mood and can easily cope up with situations of distress and depression resulting in regular training contributing to a good physical fitness standard. 

Mental fitness implies a state of psychological well-being. It denotes having a positive sense of how we feel, think, and act, which improves one’s ability to enjoy life. It contributes to one’s inner ability to be self-determined. It is a proactive, positive term and forsakes negative thoughts that may come to mind. The term mental fitness is increasingly being used by psychologists, mental health practitioners, schools, organisations, and the general population to denote logical thinking, clear comprehension, and reasoning ability.

 Negative Impact of Mental Health

The way we physically fall sick, we can also fall sick mentally. Mental illness is the instability of one’s health, which includes changes in emotion, thinking, and behaviour. Mental illness can be caused due to stress or reaction to a certain incident. It could also arise due to genetic factors, biochemical imbalances, child abuse or trauma, social disadvantage, poor physical health condition, etc. Mental illness is curable. One can seek help from the experts in this particular area or can overcome this illness by positive thinking and changing their lifestyle.

Regular fitness exercises like morning walks, yoga, and meditation have proved to be great medicine for curing mental health. Besides this, it is imperative to have a good diet and enough sleep. A person needs 7 to 9 hours of sleep every night on average. When someone is tired yet still can't sleep, it's a symptom that their mental health is unstable. Overworking oneself can sometimes result in not just physical tiredness but also significant mental exhaustion. As a result, people get insomnia (the inability to fall asleep). Anxiety is another indicator. 

There are many symptoms of mental health issues that differ from person to person and among the different kinds of issues as well. For instance, panic attacks and racing thoughts are common side effects. As a result of this mental strain, a person may experience chest aches and breathing difficulties. Another sign of poor mental health is a lack of focus. It occurs when you have too much going on in your life at once, and you begin to make thoughtless mistakes, resulting in a loss of capacity to focus effectively. Another element is being on edge all of the time.

It's noticeable when you're quickly irritated by minor events or statements, become offended, and argue with your family, friends, or co-workers. It occurs as a result of a build-up of internal irritation. A sense of alienation from your loved ones might have a negative influence on your mental health. It makes you feel lonely and might even put you in a state of despair. You can prevent mental illness by taking care of yourself like calming your mind by listening to soft music, being more social, setting realistic goals for yourself, and taking care of your body. 

Surround yourself with individuals who understand your circumstances and respect you as the unique individual that you are. This practice will assist you in dealing with the sickness successfully.  Improve your mental health knowledge to receive the help you need to deal with the problem. To gain emotional support, connect with other people, family, and friends.  Always remember to be grateful in life.  Pursue a hobby or any other creative activity that you enjoy.

What does Experts say

Many health experts have stated that mental, social, and emotional health is an important part of overall fitness. Physical fitness is a combination of physical, emotional, and mental fitness. Emotional fitness has been recognized as the state in which the mind is capable of staying away from negative thoughts and can focus on creative and constructive tasks. 

He should not overreact to situations. He should not get upset or disturbed by setbacks, which are parts of life. Those who do so are not emotionally fit though they may be physically strong and healthy. There are no gyms to set this right but yoga, meditation, and reading books, which tell us how to be emotionally strong, help to acquire emotional fitness. 

Stress and depression can lead to a variety of serious health problems, including suicide in extreme situations. Being mentally healthy extends your life by allowing you to experience more joy and happiness. Mental health also improves our ability to think clearly and boosts our self-esteem. We may also connect spiritually with ourselves and serve as role models for others. We'd also be able to serve people without being a mental drain on them. 

Mental sickness is becoming a growing issue in the 21st century. Not everyone receives the help that they need. Even though mental illness is common these days and can affect anyone, there is still a stigma attached to it. People are still reluctant to accept the illness of mind because of this stigma. They feel shame to acknowledge it and seek help from the doctors. It's important to remember that "mental health" and "mental sickness" are not interchangeable.

Mental health and mental illness are inextricably linked. Individuals with good mental health can develop mental illness, while those with no mental disease can have poor mental health. Mental illness does not imply that someone is insane, and it is not anything to be embarrassed by. Our society's perception of mental disease or disorder must shift. Mental health cannot be separated from physical health. They both are equally important for a person. 

Our society needs to change its perception of mental illness or disorder. People have to remove the stigma attached to this illness and educate themselves about it. Only about 20% of adolescents and children with diagnosable mental health issues receive the therapy they need. 

According to research conducted on adults, mental illness affects 19% of the adult population. Nearly one in every five children and adolescents on the globe has a mental illness. Depression, which affects 246 million people worldwide, is one of the leading causes of disability. If  mental illness is not treated at the correct time then the consequences can be grave.

One of the essential roles of school and education is to protect boys’ and girls' mental health as teenagers are at a high risk of mental health issues. It can also impair the proper growth and development of various emotional and social skills in teenagers. Many factors can cause such problems in children. Feelings of inferiority and insecurity are the two key factors that have the greatest impact. As a result, they lose their independence and confidence, which can be avoided by encouraging the children to believe in themselves at all times. 

To make people more aware of mental health, 10th October is observed as World Mental Health. The object of this day is to spread awareness about mental health issues around the world and make all efforts in the support of mental health.

The mind is one of the most powerful organs in the body, regulating the functioning of all other organs. When our minds are unstable, they affect the whole functioning of our bodies. Being both physically and emotionally fit is the key to success in all aspects of life. People should be aware of the consequences of mental illness and must give utmost importance to keeping the mind healthy like the way the physical body is kept healthy. Mental and physical health cannot be separated from each other. And only when both are balanced can we call a person perfectly healthy and well. So, it is crucial for everyone to work towards achieving a balance between mental and physical wellbeing and get the necessary help when either of them falters.

Putting Words to My Mental Health Struggles Saved Me

I t would happen in the grocery store. It would happen at soccer practice and at middle school dances. It would happen on long road trips, at friends’ houses after school. It would start to happen slowly and seemingly all at once. It would happen out of nowhere; this vivid sensation that I was exiting my body. I would enter into what felt to my 10-year-old self like a sort of dreamy uneasiness. I was completely out of touch with my physical presence and felt my consciousness, or whatever , carry me above myself.

It wasn’t until it had already begun that I would realize what was going on, and then I would panic that I was dying or losing my mind, losing touch with myself in a way that I could never come back from. Everything felt fake, somehow. Hoping to regain normalcy, I would find my mother in the grocery store or on the soccer field, but I would become even more panicked, because even she seemed distorted and manipulated during these episodes. Eventually they would pass without me knowing they’d passed—sometimes it would take a day or two to realize I was finally feeling human again. I woke up terrified that it would happen again, thinking about it everywhere I went.

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I grew up privileged, sheltered enough to actually believe I could never be sick . When my siblings and I were hurt, our parents could send us to a doctor. With my childlike optimism, I believed that if there was a solution to this problem, my mom and dad would find it—until then, I hadn’t seen a problem they couldn’t solve. But this was different, abstract and unfamiliar. The most painful part was that I had absolutely no idea how to describe it, not even to myself, let alone to a doctor. My mom, to whom I spoke at length about how I was feeling and who would always encourage me to be open, was stumped as well. We would both pass it off as dehydration or lack of sleep. It wasn’t until years later that my mother and I concluded I was probably experiencing episodes of depersonalization, likely due to the extreme anxiety and depression I had started feeling in my youth.

Read More: ‘We’re In a New World’: American Teenagers on Mental Health and How to Cope

This realization saved my life. It allowed me to look at these painful, scary feelings of doubt, fear, shame, and depersonalization as symptoms of a studied problem, instead of defects of my soul. For much of my childhood, I hid my flaws, insecurities, and fear because I worried that acknowledging them would mean I was irredeemable and would be defined by these feelings. Allowing myself to understand I was suffering from something so common—even if it’s rarely discussed—provided a small light at the end of the tunnel: I was fighting an illness, and I was not alone.

Once I had a cause, it was time to face the effect. Bettering my mental health continued to be a struggle for me as I forged my career in music. The lack of structure and uncertainty of finding success in a cutthroat industry wreaked havoc on my well-being. The exhausting grind of touring while battling writer’s block and performance anxiety and the ensuing depression became unbearable.

In my early 20s, I started breaking down , drinking in excess, binge eating and then not eating. I would cry my eyes out to my parents and listen to their advice: get a therapist, take medication — we can help you . I knew they were right, but I told myself that the next tour, or the next album, was going to fix the feelings. I just wasn’t successful enough yet.

A few times, I scanned the small list of regional therapists in my area until my finger settled on a name. I drove 45 minutes to a rural office—one way full of hope, the return full of reticence. Who could blame me? Sometimes the therapist would be an old classmate’s father, or would know my parents somehow. It felt hard to open up to anyone.

I tried medications but felt unequipped to deal with the side effects, in particular the dulling sensation that made it hard for me to write songs. I would quit them cold turkey and hope I could figure it out myself, ultimately leading to a downward spiral. I cycled through dark, months-long depressive episodes, half committing to one treatment then relapsing into old habits again. I was writing songs about navigating depression and anxiety , yet was absolutely clueless as to how to manage my own. Making music became too challenging and required too much energy. I slowed down creatively, and emotionally drifted away from my work. I was feeling less passionate about music and about life in general.

Read More: How to Find a Therapist Who’s Right for You

And then, in spring 2020, the world stopped and I returned to my childhood home, temporarily awoken from my emotional hibernation by the alarm of a global crisis. Suddenly, the world came to a halt, and in that respite I felt alive again.

The pressure was off. No one knew when the industry would come back, so I started to simply make music I loved again. I returned to therapy and resumed taking medication. I regained control over my mental health and accepted that I would always have to be vigilant in watching for symptoms. I still felt anxious every day, but I learned how to work through the thoughts, to sift the rational from the far-fetched. I made an album that brought me so much creative joy that for the few weeks we worked on it, I felt like I was floating—but this time fully cemented in the reality of it all. I smiled and cried tears of joy and of sorrow for the years that I’d wasted running toward nothing. My album did well, and I eventually began touring again, this time maintaining my commitment to staying in therapy every week and taking medication that helped keep me grounded.

I worked with my managers Drew Simmons and Ryan Langlois to create the Busyhead Project , a nonprofit to help provide the resources that changed my life to folks around North America. I am so grateful to my parents for the love and support, both emotional and financial, that allowed me to have a safety net to catch me during my darkest moments growing up. I wanted to use my public platform to help support organizations across the country that provide the same safety net I was fortunate to have. It’s no secret I pour my mental health into my music, and I will always continue to do so, but it means so much to me to be able to evolve that into actionable support. The Busyhead Project has surpassed our initial 2023 fundraising goal of “$1 million for mental health” and has reached $1.9 million as of today.

Read More: Noah Kahan Is on the 2023 TIME100 Next List

As I’ve been touring the country supporting my record Stick Season , many people have told me my music saved their lives—that I gave them the strength to carry on. Though flattered and honored, I am inclined to disagree. The strength it takes to get through difficult moments and complicated challenges, mental and physical, comes from within. Any person brave enough to share that they have made it through a struggle deserves every ounce of credit for making it to the other side. As the artist Grandson often says: “You did this yourself.”

I still experience days where I feel myself drifting, and the old, familiar fear starts to set in. I go through days of anxiety when I can’t sleep or eat, and I wonder if I’ll ever feel better again. Sometimes I look at the crowds of people at my shows and feel an emptiness within myself that infuriates me. What do they see that I can’t? It’s a stark reminder of the truth that I have had to come to terms with: there is no perfect ending or conclusion in my journey with my mental health. These problems will likely be with me forever. The difference is now I know I can treat them with therapy, meditation, and medication. I can talk about them with friends and family. I can write them down, and I can make them smaller. Dedicating my craft to opening up about my mental health has provided me with an arsenal to live a meaningful life, and to not be defined by the chemicals in my brain.

Kahan is a singer-songwriter and a member of the 2023 TIME100 Next list . His latest album is Stick Season .

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One of the most alarming developments across the United States in recent years has been the growing mental health crisis among children and adolescents.

The already dire situation is evolving 2024 already presenting a new set of challenges that Vicki Harrison, the program director at the Stanford Center for Youth Mental Health & Wellbeing , is closely monitoring and responding to.

Stanford Report sat down with Harrison to find out what concerns her the most about the upcoming year. Harrison also talked about some of the promising ways she and her colleagues are responding to the national crisis and the importance of bringing the youth perspective into that response.

Challenging current events

From the 2024 general election to evolving, international conflicts, today’s dialed-in youth have a lot to process. As teens turn to digital and social media sources to learn about current events and figure out where they stand on particular issues, the sheer volume of news online can feel overwhelming, stressful, and confusing.

One way Harrison is helping teens navigate the information they consume online is through Good for Media , a youth-led initiative that grew out of the Stanford Center for Youth Mental Health & Wellbeing to bring teens and young adults together to discuss using social media in a safe and healthy way. In addition to numerous youth-developed tools and videos, the team has a guide with tips to deal with the volume of news online and how to process the emotions that come with it.

Harrison points out that the tone of political discourse today – particularly discussions about reining in the rights a person has based on aspects of their identity, such as their religion, race, national origin, or gender – affects adolescents at a crucial time in their development, a period when they are exploring who they are and what they believe in.

“If their identity is being othered, criticized, or punished in some way, what messages is that sending to young people and how do they feel good about themselves?” Harrison said. “We can’t divorce these political and cultural debates from the mental health of young people.”

Harrison believes that any calls for solving the mental health crisis must acknowledge the critical importance of inclusion, dignity, and respect in supporting the mental health of young people.

Talking about mental health

Adolescence is a crucial time to develop coping skills to respond to stressful situations that arise – a skill not all teens and youth learn.

“It hasn’t always been normalized to talk about mental health and how to address feeling sad or worried about things,” Harrison said. “It’s not something that all of us have been taught to really understand and how to cope with. A lot of young people aren’t comfortable seeking professional services.”

The Stanford Center for Youth Mental Health & Wellbeing is helping young people get that extra bit of support to deal with problems before they get worse.

This year, they are rolling out stand-alone “one-stop-shop” health centers that offer youth 12-25 years old access to a range of clinical and counseling services with both trained professionals and peers. Called allcove , there are three locations open so far – Palo Alto, Redondo Beach, and San Mateo. More are set to open across the state in 2024.

“If we can normalize young people having an access point – and feeling comfortable accessing it – we can put them on a healthier track and get them any help they may need,” Harrison said.

Another emerging issue Harrison is monitoring is the growing role of social media influencers who talk openly about their struggles with mental health and well-being.

While this is helping bring awareness to mental health – which Harrison wants to see more of – she is also concerned about how it could lead some teens to mistake a normal, stressful life experience for a mental disorder and incorrectly self-diagnose themselves or to overgeneralize or misunderstand symptoms of mental health conditions. Says Harrison, “We want to see mental health destigmatized, but not oversimplified or minimized.”

“We can’t divorce these political and cultural debates from the mental health of young people.” —Vicki Harrison Program Director at the Stanford Center for Youth Mental Health & Wellbeing

Eyes on new technologies

Advances in technology – particularly generative AI – offer new approaches to improving teen well-being, such as therapeutic chatbots or detecting symptoms through keywords or patterns in speech.

“Digital solutions are a promising part of the continuum of care, but there’s the risk of rolling out things without the research backing them,” Harrison said.

Social media companies have come under scrutiny in recent years for inadequately safeguarding young adult mental health. Harrison hopes those mishaps serve as a cautionary tale for those applying AI tools more broadly.

There’s an opportunity, she says, to involve adolescents directly in making AI applications safe and effective. She and her team hope to engage young people with policy and industry and involve them in the design process, rather than as an afterthought.

“Can we listen to their ideas for how to make it better and how to make it work for them?” Harrison asks. “Giving them that agency is going to give us great ideas and make a better experience for them and for everyone using it.”

Harrison said she and her team are hoping to engage young people with policy and industry to elevate their ideas into the design process, rather than have it be an afterthought.

“There’s a lot of really motivated young people who see potential to do things differently and want to improve the world they inhabit,” Harrison said. “That’s why I always want to find opportunities to pass them the microphone and listen.”

Financial stress is making us mentally and physically ill. Here’s how to cope

Years ago, I received a surprise in the mail: a $500 bill for a recent X-ray. I was earning an entry-level media salary at the time (for the uninitiated, that’s equivalent to peanuts), and the shock of having to figure out how to cover an unexpected expense sent my pulse racing with anxiety and my head pounding with stress. 

I was in good company. Research shows again and again that our finances can take a toll on our minds . Money has consistently topped Americans’ list of stressors since the American Psychological Association began running its annual Stress in America Survey in 2007; it contributed to what the APA deemed the country’s “ mental health crisis ” risk in 2020. At the time, Americans were grappling with the coronavirus recession. They’ve since added the price of food , record-high credit card debt , and little student debt relief to their worries. 

The Chicago-based nonprofit Financial Health Network began investigating the link between our finances and our health last year in the wake of the pandemic, examining literature and running a mass survey. Its latest research installment, released in April , employed a focus group. Participants revealed that money worries weren’t just causing their mental well-being to decline, but their physical health, reporting back pain and stomach aches so painful they couldn’t work. (So that explains my medical bill-induced headache). 

“There’s a clear relationship between mental health and stress and how we feel in our bodies,”  Angela Fontes, vice president of policy and research at Financial Health Network, tells Fortune .

We can partly thank the gut-brain connection for that. Stress and anxiety can manifest physically as nausea, shortness of breath, or stomach pain, to name a few symptoms. 

What’s more: The health-money relationship is a vicious cycle. Poor mental well-being can also negatively impact our finances. Fontes explains that this manifests in various ways—compulsive spending as a coping mechanism; difficulty paying bills while carrying a heavy mental load; and missing work or not performing well, which she says can impact wages and long-term job success.

Consider that depression can result in neglecting even the most basic hygiene like brushing your teeth, says Khara Croswaite Brindle , a licensed financial therapist in Colorado. “We know that money isn’t basic, it requires a bit of mental energy to manage, so being in depression could mean our money is neglected in addition to our physical and mental health needs,” she explains.

Whether the chicken or the egg comes first, here’s how to make sure your physical, mental, and financial well-being are all on the same page. 

Take a break to reset your mind

People fall into one of three categories, says Fontes: financially healthy; financially coping—getting by day to day but not preparing for long-term goals; and financially vulnerable—struggling with nearly every aspect of their financial lives. This last cohort comprises two sub groups: Those who experienced a financial shock (and typically overcome it) and those who have been chronically struggling financially, which increases the potential of long-term mental health challenges.

This can be the result of financial trauma , generational debt or intergenerational poverty, lack of financial literacy, or even a few poor money choices. But the root of any of these money challenges is emotion, says Croswaite Brindle: “Whether it’s anxiety, depression, dread, or avoidance, money is inherently emotional.”

She says seeing a financial therapist to discuss things like money beliefs and spending patterns can help you navigate your emotions so they don’t take a toll on your mental and physical health. “People can change their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors with money, putting them on the path to a better financial situation,” she says. Of course, some of the most financially vulnerable may not be able to afford therapy. Fontes says that many participants in the study coped by taking time to do one thing, like exercise or meditation , to get their mind in a different space that would make tackling their financial challenges feel more doable. And that’s a good place to start.

“A lot of this is about control,” she says, explaining that big triggers for this cycle are unexpected expenses like debt accumulation. “Getting and doing something that sort of helps restore that sense of control really seems to be a critical first step.”

Take baby steps toward saving

Even if your finances aren’t in poor shape, you should still take preventative measures so they don’t nosedive if your mental health tanks.

That might look like sitting down and reviewing your money once a week or examining your savings and investment accounts to see if you can tuck away another $10 a month, Fontes says. 

A savings cushion can help protect against unexpected expenses. It can also help during low points—like having the house cleaned so you can feel better in your environment or ordering food when you don’t have the energy to cook, Croswaite Brindle says. It gives you permission and the means to access what you need or take time off without your household taking a financial hit, she adds. 

“Savings isn’t always about the long game anymore, but about how do we live a comfortable life now while thinking about the future?” Croswaite Brindle says. “Not an either-or but a both-and way of thinking.” 

More on stress and your health:

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• Stress is making your biological age older than it actually is. Recovering could make you younger again
• These are the top 10 most stressed states in America
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When Prison and Mental Illness Amount to a Death Sentence

The downward spiral of one inmate, Markus Johnson, shows the larger failures of the nation’s prisons to care for the mentally ill.

Supported by

By Glenn Thrush

Photographs by Carlos Javier Ortiz

Glenn Thrush spent more than a year reporting this article, interviewing close to 50 people and reviewing court-obtained body-camera footage and more than 1,500 pages of documents.

• Published May 5, 2024 Updated May 7, 2024

Markus Johnson slumped naked against the wall of his cell, skin flecked with pepper spray, his face a mask of puzzlement, exhaustion and resignation. Four men in black tactical gear pinned him, his face to the concrete, to cuff his hands behind his back.

He did not resist. He couldn’t. He was so gravely dehydrated he would be dead by their next shift change.

Listen to this article with reporter commentary

“I didn’t do anything,” Mr. Johnson moaned as they pressed a shield between his shoulders.

It was 1:19 p.m. on Sept. 6, 2019, in the Danville Correctional Center, a medium-security prison a few hours south of Chicago. Mr. Johnson, 21 and serving a short sentence for gun possession, was in the throes of a mental collapse that had gone largely untreated, but hardly unwatched.

He had entered in good health, with hopes of using the time to gain work skills. But for the previous three weeks, Mr. Johnson, who suffered from bipolar disorder and schizophrenia, had refused to eat or take his medication. Most dangerous of all, he had stealthily stopped drinking water, hastening the physical collapse that often accompanies full-scale mental crises.

Mr. Johnson’s horrific downward spiral, which has not been previously reported, represents the larger failures of the nation’s prisons to care for the mentally ill. Many seriously ill people receive no treatment . For those who do, the outcome is often determined by the vigilance and commitment of individual supervisors and frontline staff, which vary greatly from system to system, prison to prison, and even shift to shift.

The country’s jails and prisons have become its largest provider of inpatient mental health treatment, with 10 times as many seriously mentally ill people now held behind bars as in hospitals. Estimating the population of incarcerated people with major psychological problems is difficult, but the number is likely 200,000 to 300,000, experts say.

Many of these institutions remain ill-equipped to handle such a task, and the burden often falls on prison staff and health care personnel who struggle with the dual roles of jailer and caregiver in a high-stress, dangerous, often dehumanizing environment.

In 2021, Joshua McLemore , a 29-year-old with schizophrenia held for weeks in an isolation cell in Jackson County, Ind., died of organ failure resulting from a “refusal to eat or drink,” according to an autopsy. In April, New York City agreed to pay $28 million to settle a lawsuit filed by the family of Nicholas Feliciano, a young man with a history of mental illness who suffered severe brain damage after attempting to hang himself on Rikers Island — as correctional officers stood by.

Mr. Johnson’s mother has filed a wrongful-death suit against the state and Wexford Health Sources, a for-profit health care contractor in Illinois prisons. The New York Times reviewed more than 1,500 pages of reports, along with depositions taken from those involved. Together, they reveal a cascade of missteps, missed opportunities, potential breaches of protocol and, at times, lapses in common sense.

Prison officials and Wexford staff took few steps to intervene even after it became clear that Mr. Johnson, who had been hospitalized repeatedly for similar episodes and recovered, had refused to take medication. Most notably, they did not transfer him to a state prison facility that provides more intensive mental health treatment than is available at regular prisons, records show.

The quality of medical care was also questionable, said Mr. Johnson’s lawyers, Sarah Grady and Howard Kaplan, a married legal team in Chicago. Mr. Johnson lost 50 to 60 pounds during three weeks in solitary confinement, but officials did not initiate interventions like intravenous feedings or transfer him to a non-prison hospital.

And they did not take the most basic step — dialing 911 — until it was too late.

There have been many attempts to improve the quality of mental health treatment in jails and prisons by putting care on par with punishment — including a major effort in Chicago . But improvements have proved difficult to enact and harder to sustain, hampered by funding and staffing shortages.

Lawyers representing the state corrections department, Wexford and staff members who worked at Danville declined to comment on Mr. Johnson’s death, citing the unresolved litigation. In their interviews with state police investigators, and in depositions, employees defended their professionalism and adherence to procedure, while citing problems with high staff turnover, difficult work conditions, limited resources and shortcomings of co-workers.

But some expressed a sense of resignation about the fate of Mr. Johnson and others like him.

Prisoners have “much better chances in a hospital, but that’s not their situation,” said a senior member of Wexford’s health care team in a deposition.

“I didn’t put them in prison,” he added. “They are in there for a reason.”

Markus Mison Johnson was born on March 1, 1998, to a mother who believed she was not capable of caring for him.

Days after his birth, he was taken in by Lisa Barker Johnson, a foster mother in her 30s who lived in Zion, Ill., a working-class city halfway between Chicago and Milwaukee. Markus eventually became one of four children she adopted from different families.

The Johnson house is a lively split level, with nieces, nephews, grandchildren and neighbors’ children, family keepsakes, video screens and juice boxes. Ms. Johnson sits at its center on a kitchen chair, chin resting on her hand as children wander over to share their thoughts, or to tug on her T-shirt to ask her to be their bathroom buddy.

From the start, her bond with Markus was particularly powerful, in part because the two looked so much alike, with distinctive dimpled smiles. Many neighbors assumed he was her biological son. The middle name she chose for him was intended to convey that message.

“Mison is short for ‘my son,’” she said standing over his modest footstone grave last summer.

He was happy at home. School was different. His grades were good, but he was intensely shy and was diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in elementary school.

That was around the time the bullying began. His sisters were fierce defenders, but they could only do so much. He did the best he could, developing a quick, taunting tongue.

These experiences filled him with a powerful yearning to fit in.

It was not to be.

When he was around 15, he called 911 in a panic, telling the dispatcher he saw two men standing near the small park next to his house threatening to abduct children playing there. The officers who responded found nothing out of the ordinary, and rang the Johnsons’ doorbell.

He later told his mother he had heard a voice telling him to “protect the kids.”

He was hospitalized for the first time at 16, and given medications that stabilized him for stretches of time. But the crises would strike every six months or so, often triggered by his decision to stop taking his medication.

His family became adept at reading signs he was “getting sick.” He would put on his tan Timberlands and a heavy winter coat, no matter the season, and perch on the edge of his bed as if bracing for battle. Sometimes, he would cook his own food, paranoid that someone might poison him.

He graduated six months early, on the dean’s list, but was rudderless, and hanging out with younger boys, often paying their way.

His mother pointed out the perils of buying friendship.

“I don’t care,” he said. “At least I’ll be popular for a minute.”

Zion’s inviting green grid of Bible-named streets belies the reality that it is a rough, unforgiving place to grow up. Family members say Markus wanted desperately to prove he was tough, and emulated his younger, reckless group of friends.

Like many of them, he obtained a pistol. He used it to hold up a convenience store clerk for $425 in January 2017, according to police records. He cut a plea deal for two years of probation, and never explained to his family what had made him do it.

But he kept getting into violent confrontations. In late July 2018, he was arrested in a neighbor’s garage with a handgun he later admitted was his. He was still on probation for the robbery, and his public defender negotiated a plea deal that would send him to state prison until January 2020.

An inpatient mental health system

Around 40 percent of the about 1.8 million people in local, state and federal jails and prison suffer from at least one mental illness, and many of these people have concurrent issues with substance abuse, according to recent Justice Department estimates.

Psychological problems, often exacerbated by drug use, often lead to significant medical problems resulting from a lack of hygiene or access to good health care.

“When you suffer depression in the outside world, it’s hard to concentrate, you have reduced energy, your sleep is disrupted, you have a very gloomy outlook, so you stop taking care of yourself,” said Robert L. Trestman , a Virginia Tech medical school professor who has worked on state prison mental health reforms.

The paradox is that prison is often the only place where sick people have access to even minimal care.

But the harsh work environment, remote location of many prisons, and low pay have led to severe shortages of corrections staff and the unwillingness of doctors, nurses and counselors to work with the incarcerated mentally ill.

In the early 2000s, prisoners’ rights lawyers filed a class-action lawsuit against Illinois claiming “deliberate indifference” to the plight of about 5,000 mentally ill prisoners locked in segregated units and denied treatment and medication.

In 2014, the parties reached a settlement that included minimum staffing mandates, revamped screening protocols, restrictions on the use of solitary confinement and the allocation of about $100 million to double capacity in the system’s specialized mental health units.

Yet within six months of the deal, Pablo Stewart, an independent monitor chosen to oversee its enforcement, declared the system to be in a state of emergency.

Over the years, some significant improvements have been made. But Dr. Stewart’s final report , drafted in 2022, gave the system failing marks for its medication and staffing policies and reliance on solitary confinement “crisis watch” cells.

Ms. Grady, one of Mr. Johnson’s lawyers, cited an additional problem: a lack of coordination between corrections staff and Wexford’s professionals, beyond dutifully filling out dozens of mandated status reports.

“Markus Johnson was basically documented to death,” she said.

‘I’m just trying to keep my head up’

Mr. Johnson was not exactly looking forward to prison. But he saw it as an opportunity to learn a trade so he could start a family when he got out.

On Dec. 18, 2018, he arrived at a processing center in Joliet, where he sat for an intake interview. He was coherent and cooperative, well-groomed and maintained eye contact. He was taking his medication, not suicidal and had a hearty appetite. He was listed as 5 feet 6 inches tall and 256 pounds.

Mr. Johnson described his mood as “go with the flow.”

A few days later, after arriving in Danville, he offered a less settled assessment during a telehealth visit with a Wexford psychiatrist, Dr. Nitin Thapar. Mr. Johnson admitted to being plagued by feelings of worthlessness, hopelessness and “constant uncontrollable worrying” that affected his sleep.

He told Dr. Thapar he had heard voices in the past — but not now — telling him he was a failure, and warning that people were out to get him.

At the time he was incarcerated, the basic options for mentally ill people in Illinois prisons included placement in the general population or transfer to a special residential treatment program at the Dixon Correctional Center, west of Chicago. Mr. Johnson seemed out of immediate danger, so he was assigned to a standard two-man cell in the prison’s general population, with regular mental health counseling and medication.

Things started off well enough. “I’m just trying to keep my head up,” he wrote to his mother. “Every day I learn to be stronger & stronger.”

But his daily phone calls back home hinted at friction with other inmates. And there was not much for him to do after being turned down for a janitorial training program.

Then, in the spring of 2019, his grandmother died, sending him into a deep hole.

Dr. Thapar prescribed a new drug used to treat major depressive disorders. Its most common side effect is weight gain. Mr. Johnson stopped taking it.

On July 4, he told Dr. Thapar matter-of-factly during a telehealth check-in that he was no longer taking any of his medications. “I’ve been feeling normal, I guess,” he said. “I feel like I don’t need the medication anymore.”

Dr. Thapar said he thought that was a mistake, but accepted the decision and removed Mr. Johnson from his regular mental health caseload — instructing him to “reach out” if he needed help, records show.

The pace of calls back home slackened. Mr. Johnson spent more time in bed, and became more surly. At a group-therapy session, he sat stone silent, after showing up late.

By early August, he was telling guards he had stopped eating.

At some point, no one knows when, he had intermittently stopped drinking fluids.

‘I’m having a breakdown’

Then came the crash.

On Aug. 12, Mr. Johnson got into a fight with his older cellmate.

He was taken to a one-man disciplinary cell. A few hours later, Wexford’s on-site mental health counselor, Melanie Easton, was shocked by his disoriented condition. Mr. Johnson stared blankly, then burst into tears when asked if he had “suffered a loss in the previous six months.”

He was so unresponsive to her questions she could not finish the evaluation.

Ms. Easton ordered that he be moved to a 9-foot by 8-foot crisis cell — solitary confinement with enhanced monitoring. At this moment, a supervisor could have ticked the box for “residential treatment” on a form to transfer him to Dixon. That did not happen, according to records and depositions.

Around this time, he asked to be placed back on his medication but nothing seems to have come of it, records show.

By mid-August, he said he was visualizing “people that were not there,” according to case notes. At first, he was acting more aggressively, once flicking water at a guard through a hole in his cell door. But his energy ebbed, and he gradually migrated downward — from standing to bunk to floor.

“I’m having a breakdown,” he confided to a Wexford employee.

At the time, inmates in Illinois were required to declare an official hunger strike before prison officials would initiate protocols, including blood testing or forced feedings. But when a guard asked Mr. Johnson why he would not eat, he said he was “fasting,” as opposed to starving himself, and no action seems to have been taken.

‘Tell me this is OK!’

Lt. Matthew Morrison, one of the few people at Danville to take a personal interest in Mr. Johnson, reported seeing a white rind around his mouth in early September. He told other staff members the cell gave off “a death smell,” according to a deposition.

On Sept. 5, they moved Mr. Johnson to one of six cells adjacent to the prison’s small, bare-bones infirmary. Prison officials finally placed him on the official hunger strike protocol without his consent.

Mr. Morrison, in his deposition, said he was troubled by the inaction of the Wexford staff, and the lack of urgency exhibited by the medical director, Dr. Justin Young.

On Sept. 5, Mr. Morrison approached Dr. Young to express his concerns, and the doctor agreed to order blood and urine tests. But Dr. Young lived in Chicago, and was on site at the prison about four times a week, according to Mr. Kaplan. Friday, Sept. 6, 2019, was not one of those days.

Mr. Morrison arrived at work that morning, expecting to find Mr. Johnson’s testing underway. A Wexford nurse told him Dr. Young believed the tests could wait.

Mr. Morrison, stunned, asked her to call Dr. Young.

“He’s good till Monday,” Dr. Young responded, according to Mr. Morrison.

“Come on, come on, look at this guy! You tell me this is OK!” the officer responded.

Eventually, Justin Duprey, a licensed nurse practitioner and the most senior Wexford employee on duty that day, authorized the test himself.

Mr. Morrison, thinking he had averted a disaster, entered the cell and implored Mr. Johnson into taking the tests. He refused.

So prison officials obtained approval to remove him forcibly from his cell.

‘Oh, my God’

What happened next is documented in video taken from cameras held by officers on the extraction team and obtained by The Times through a court order.

Mr. Johnson is scarcely recognizable as the neatly groomed 21-year-old captured in a cellphone picture a few months earlier. His skin is ashen, eyes fixed on the middle distance. He might be 40. Or 60.

At first, he places his hands forward through the hole in his cell door to be cuffed. This is against procedure, the officers shout. His hands must be in back.

He will not, or cannot, comply. He wanders to the rear of his cell and falls hard. Two blasts of pepper spray barely elicit a reaction. The leader of the tactical team later said he found it unusual and unnerving.

The next video is in the medical unit. A shield is pressed to his chest. He is in agony, begging for them to stop, as two nurses attempt to insert a catheter.

Then they move him, half-conscious and limp, onto a wheelchair for the blood draw.

For the next 20 minutes, the Wexford nurse performing the procedure, Angelica Wachtor, jabs hands and arms to find a vessel that will hold shape. She winces with each puncture, tries to comfort him, and grows increasingly rattled.

“Oh, my God,” she mutters, and asks why help is not on the way.

She did not request assistance or discuss calling 911, records indicate.

“Can you please stop — it’s burning real bad,” Mr. Johnson said.

Soon after, a member of the tactical team reminds Ms. Wachtor to take Mr. Johnson’s vitals before taking him back to his cell. She would later tell Dr. Young she had been unable to able to obtain his blood pressure.

“You good?” one of the team members asks as they are preparing to leave.

“Yeah, I’ll have to be,” she replies in the recording.

Officers lifted him back onto his bunk, leaving him unconscious and naked except for a covering draped over his groin. His expressionless face is visible through the window on the cell door as it closes.

‘Cardiac arrest.’

Mr. Duprey, the nurse practitioner, had been sitting inside his office after corrections staff ordered him to shelter for his own protection, he said. When he emerged, he found Ms. Wachtor sobbing, and after a delay, he was let into the cell. Finding no pulse, Mr. Duprey asked a prison employee to call 911 so Mr. Johnson could be taken to a local emergency room.

The Wexford staff initiated CPR. It did not work.

At 3:38 p.m., the paramedics declared Markus Mison Johnson dead.

Afterward, a senior official at Danville called the Johnson family to say he had died of “cardiac arrest.”

Lisa Johnson pressed for more information, but none was initially forthcoming. She would soon receive a box hastily crammed with his possessions: uneaten snacks, notebooks, an inspirational memoir by a man who had served 20 years at Leavenworth.

Later, Shiping Bao, the coroner who examined his body, determined Mr. Johnson had died of severe dehydration. He told the state police it “was one of the driest bodies he had ever seen.”

For a long time, Ms. Johnson blamed herself. She says that her biggest mistake was assuming that the state, with all its resources, would provide a level of care comparable to what she had been able to provide her son.

She had stopped accepting foster care children while she was raising Markus and his siblings. But as the months dragged on, she decided her once-boisterous house had become oppressively still, and let local agencies know she was available again.

“It is good to have children around,” she said. “It was too quiet around here.”

Read by Glenn Thrush

Audio produced by Jack D’Isidoro .

Glenn Thrush covers the Department of Justice. He joined The Times in 2017 after working for Politico, Newsday, Bloomberg News, The New York Daily News, The Birmingham Post-Herald and City Limits. More about Glenn Thrush

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As mental health issues plague Asian American communities, some fight silence around issue

As the global emergency surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic ended last year, directors at Self-Help for the Elderly, an agency serving San Francisco’s Asian American community, figured seniors would emerge from their seclusion and return to social activities they once embraced: community lunches, tai chi sessions, walks in the park.

Instead, they found, many continued to stay home, alarmed by continuing reports of anti-Asian violence .

“They don’t dare to go out because of a really deep fear of being attacked,” said Anni Chung, the agency’s president and CEO. “That leads to a lack of physical activity and, eventually, signs of depression.”

Nationwide, pandemic-related isolation, anti-Asian rhetoric and abuse – along with mass shootings that claimed Asian victims in Atlanta and California – have exacerbated the mental health challenges faced by Asian Americans in the last several years. Meanwhile, studies show Asian Americans are least likely to seek mental health services , partly because of the cultural stigma that exists around seeking such help.

“Having these conversations and seeking mental health care are still stigmatized across Asian American communities,” said Nicole Dowd, director of public programs for the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Asian Art in Washington.

That’s one reason the museum has made mental health and wellbeing the theme of its second annual Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month festival, taking place this weekend .

“Focusing on this highlights the importance of dialogue across AANHPI communities and generations,” Dowd said. “Our goal is create a gathering space for dialogue, learning and mindfulness.”

That May is also Mental Health Awareness Month adds relevance, she said.

The festival will feature listening spaces with music, a series of sound bath meditation sessions and conversations with mental health writers and practitioners, offering festivalgoers tools they can use to address mental health in their own lives, she said.

The struggles faced by some segments of the community suggest post-pandemic challenges remain. Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders were among the racial/ethnic groups that experienced the highest increases in suicides from 2021 to 2022, according to the CDC.

Last year in San Francisco, as the pandemic faded and the agency began reopening community centers, it found many seniors were still reluctant to congregate. Instead, centers offered to-go meals, with hundreds of seniors lined up outside for meals they took home and ate alone.

Now, with all centers having since reopened and to-go options discontinued, attendance at those same centers barely hovers around 80 people.

“The fear is still there,” Chung said. “COVID and the anti-Asian attacks did something that impacted their behavior. They have no one to talk to or socialize with, and without that connection they’re going to get frail both physically and mentally.”

Why some Asian Americans avoid seeking mental health care

Community members and advocates say Asian Americans may be reluctant to seek mental healthcare for many reasons, especially given the wide range of experiences and cultural traditions depending on whether their heritage is, for example, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Filipino, Vietnamese, Hmong or South Asian.

"No experience in the Asian American community is monolithic," Dowd said. "Everyone has their own histories and reasons."

Dowd said some are reluctant to discuss mental health issues out of empathy for what their elders experienced.

“A lot of it comes down to a hesitance to talk about things in the past and the generalized immigrant experience of wanting to move forward,” she said.

Grace Kim, chair of Boston University’s counseling psychology and applied human development department, said many view physical and mental health in tandem, making them less likely to separate out mental health and instead couching it in terms of fatigue or low energy rather than depression or anxiety.

Chung said that for her agency’s Chinese senior clients, translations for the term "mental illness" carry negative connotations.

“The translation in Chinese means 'crazy,'” she said. “No one wants to be, or wants their family members to be, labeled that way, so they want to hide it because it’s such a taboo.”

Furthermore, many refuse to ingest what they see as psyche-altering drugs.

“They hear about the effects of taking them – that they become a different person,” Chung said. “So people won’t take their medications. It’s difficult when providers don’t speak their language or understand their culture.”

Psychology workforce plagued by lack of diversity

The lack of culturally competent mental health providers is one that plagues most communities of color.

“Even in Chinatown, where we have 200,000 Chinese, I don’t think you could easily find a bilingual psychiatrist who practices in the community,” Chung said.

According to a 2020 American Psychological Association report, 84% of the psychology workforce is white, while Asians comprise just 4%.

That means Asian American clients face challenges finding mental health professionals aware of their lived experiences who can skillfully support them. The few therapists who do meet those qualifications often have workloads already stretched by the pandemic, with waitlists not uncommon .

“We know that there are fewer in-language providers available to meet the needs of all minoritized communities, including Asian Americans,” said Anne Saw, an associate professor of psychology at Chicago’s DePaul University.

Earlier this year, the National Museum of Asian Art convened a group of artists, community leaders and health providers to discuss the mental health issues facing the nation’s Asian American communities.

“What we learned is that challenges come from a range of experiences such as intergenerational trauma, questions of identity, discrimination, violence related to the pandemic and the general stresses we face as human beings,” Dowd said. “But there’s also a lack of accessible tools.”

Saw said that if there’s any silver lining to the crisis, it’s that some in the community are becoming more willing to talk openly about mental health.

“There’s still that stigma, but people are more willing to engage in these conversations because they’ve seen firsthand the impact of all these stressors on their families and children,” she said.

Kim agreed.

“Many Asian Americans, especially young adults, are talking about mental health and seeking out supports specifically through Asian American therapists or other therapists of color,” she said. “This knowledge of what they need, and being able to ask for it, is great.”

Finding ways to overcome mental health stigma

In San Francisco, with seniors reluctant to go to mental health clinics, Chung’s agency has found ways to have the clinics come to them. For instance, one city mental health provider Chung knew would visit the agency's community centers, sifting out symptoms of depression through casual conversation and making suggestions to help them address the issue, such as socializing more.

“If you asked our patients to walk into a mental health clinic, there’s no way they would go,” Chung said. “So it was a cultural way of dealing with a difficult and taboo subject, making it more of a normal conversation instead of a therapy session.”

The agency relies on a half-dozen other retired clinicians who occasionally drop in to engage seniors in the same way, Chung said.

Meanwhile, Chung said some social workers now employ terms such as "psychological" or "spiritual health" when speaking with seniors to avoid triggering alarms while asking about telltale signs like loss of sleep, appetite or a desire to see family or friends.

“The seniors would never you outright that they’re depressed or anxious,” she said. “They don’t want to be stigmatized.”

Saw said another way to approach the reluctance among some could be to appeal to the importance of family in Asian American culture, stressing the benefits that mental health care can provide for such relationships. She also pointed to programs that indirectly address mental health through social activities, connecting people around hobbies or tai chi.

“They’re more captivating ways of bringing people out of their house and connecting them with people who can support them,” she said. “Those are the programs that will probably be models for us going forward.”

Patients love telehealth—physicians are not so sure

IRL or URL? Many physicians and patients used to see medical care as something best done in-person (in real life, or IRL). But the pandemic has spurred a massive transition to virtual (or URL) care. According to our recent surveys of consumers and physicians, opinions are split on what happens next (see sidebar, “Our methodology”). As the pandemic evolves, consumers still prefer the convenience of digital engagement and virtual-care options, according to our recent McKinsey Consumer Health Insights Survey. This preference could help more patients access care, while also helping providers to grow.

Our methodology

To help our clients understand responses to COVID-19, McKinsey launched a research effort to gather insights from physicians into how the pandemic is affecting their ability to provide care, their financial situation, and their level of stress, as well as what kind of support would interest them. Nationwide surveys were conducted online in 2020 from April 27–May 5 (538 respondents), July 22–27 (150 respondents), and September 22–27 (303 respondents), as well as from March 25–April 5, 2021 (379 respondents).

The participants were US physicians in a variety of practice types and sizes, and a range of employment types. The specialties included general practice and family practice; cardiology; orthopedics, sports medicine and musculoskeletal; dermatology; general surgery; obstetrics and gynecology; oncology; ophthalmology; otorhinolaryngology and ENT; pediatrics; plastic surgery; physical medicine and rehabilitation; psychiatry and behavioral health; emergency medicine; and urology. These surveys built on a prior one of 1,008 primary-care, cardiology, and orthopedic-surgery physicians in April 2019.

To provide timely insights on the reported behaviors, concerns, and desired support of adult consumers (18 years and older) in response to COVID-19, McKinsey launched consumer surveys in 2020 (March 16–17, March 27–29, April 11–13, April 25–27, May 15–18, June 4–8, July 11–14, September 5–7, October 22–26, and November 20–December 6) and 2021 (January 4–11, February 8–12, March 15–22, April 24–May 2, June 4–13, and August 13–23). These surveys represent the stated perspectives of consumers and are not meant to indicate or predict their actual future behavior. (In these surveys, we asked consumers about “Coronavirus/COVID-19,” given the general public’s colloquial use of coronavirus to refer to COVID-19.)

Many digital start-ups and tech and retail giants are rising to the occasion, but our most recent (2021) McKinsey Physician Survey indicates that physicians may prefer a return to pre-COVID-19 norms. In this article, we explore the trends creating disconnects between consumers and physicians and share ideas on how providers could offer digital services that work not only for them but also for patients. Bottom line: a seamless IRL/URL offering could retain patients while delivering high-quality care. Everybody benefits.

The rise of telehealth

These materials reflect general insight based on currently available information, which has not been independently verified and is inherently uncertain. Future results may differ materially from any statements of expectation, forecasts, or projections. These materials are not a guarantee of results and cannot be relied upon. These materials do not constitute legal, medical, policy, or other regulated advice and do not contain all the information needed to determine a future course of action.

At the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, both physicians and patients embraced telehealth: in April 2020, the number of virtual visits was a stunning 78 times higher than it had been two months earlier, accounting for nearly one-third of outpatient visits. In May 2021, 88 percent of consumers said that they had used telehealth services at some point since the COVID-19 pandemic began. Physicians also felt dramatically more comfortable with virtual care. Eighty-three percent of those surveyed in the 2021 McKinsey Physician Survey offered virtual services, compared with only 13 percent in 2019. 1 See sidebar on methodology; McKinsey Physician Surveys conducted nationally in five waves between May 2019 and April 2021; May 1, 2019, n = 1,008; May 5, 2020, n = 500; July 2, 2020, n = 150; September 27, 2020, n = 500; April 5, 2021, n = 379.

However, as of mid-2021, consumers’ embrace of telehealth appeared to have dimmed a bit  from its early COVID-19 peak: utilization was down to 38 times pre-COVID-19 levels. Also, more physicians were offering telehealth but recommending in-person care when possible in 2021, which could suggest that physicians are gravitating away from URL and would prefer a return to IRL care delivery (Exhibit 1).

Three trends from the late-stage pandemic

As COVID-19 continues, three emerging trends could set the stage for the next few years.

The number of virtual-first players keeps growing, and physicians struggle to keep up

The growth (and valuations) of virtual-first care providers suggest that demand by patients is persistent and growing. Teladoc increased the number of its visits by 156 percent in 2020, and its revenues jumped by 107 percent year over year. Amwell increased its supply of providers by 950 percent in 2020. 2 “Teladoc Health reports fourth-quarter and full-year 2020 results,” Teledoc Health, February 24, 2021; “Amwell announces results for the fourth quarter and full year 2020,” Amwell, March 24, 2021. By contrast, only 45 percent of physicians have been able to invest in telehealth during the pandemic, and only 16 percent have invested in other digital tools. Just 41 percent believe that they have the technology to deliver telehealth seamlessly. 3 McKinsey Physician Survey, April 5, 2021.

Some workflows, for example, require physicians to log into disparate systems that do not integrate seamlessly with an electronic health record (EHR). Audiovisual failures during virtual appointments continue to occur. To make these models work, providers may need to determine how to design operational workflows to make IRL/URL care as seamless as possible for both providers and patients. The workflows and care team models may need to vary, depending on the physician’s specialty and the amount of time they plan to devote to URL versus IRL care.

Patient–physician relationships are shifting

In McKinsey’s April 2021 Physician Survey, 58 percent of the respondents reported that they had lost patients to other physicians or to other health systems since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. Corroborating those findings, our August 2021 survey of consumers showed that of those who had a primary-care physician (PCP), 15 percent had switched in the past year. Thirty-five percent of all consumers reported seeing a new healthcare provider who was not their regular PCP or specialist in the past year. Among consumers who had switched PCPs, 35 percent cited one or more reasons related to the patient experience—the desire for a PCP who better understood their needs (15 percent of respondents), a better experience (10 percent), or more convenient appointments (6 percent). Just half (50 percent) of consumers with a PCP say they are very satisfied. What’s more, Medicare regulations now give patients more ownership over their health data, and that could make it easier for them to switch physicians. 4 “Policies and technology for interoperability and burden reduction,” Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, December 9, 2021.

Physicians and patients see telehealth differently

Our surveys show that doctors and patients have starkly different opinions about telehealth and broader digital engagement (Exhibit 2). Take convenience: while two-thirds of physicians and 60 percent of patients said they agreed that virtual health is more convenient than in-person care for patients, only 36 percent of physicians find it more convenient for themselves.

This perception may be leading physicians to rethink telehealth. Most said they expect to return to a primarily in-person delivery model over the next year. Sixty-two percent said they recommend in-person over virtual care to patients. Physicians also expect telehealth to account for one-third less of their visits a year from now than it does today.

These physicians may be underestimating patient demand. Forty percent of patients in May 2021 said they believe they will continue to use telehealth in the pandemic’s aftermath. 5 McKinsey Consumer Health Insights Survey , May 7, 2021.

In November 2021, 55 percent of patients said they were more satisfied with telehealth/virtual care visits than with in-person appointments. 6 McKinsey Consumer Health Insights Survey , November 19, 2021. Thirty-five percent of consumers are currently using other digital services, such as ordering prescriptions online and home delivery. Of these, 42 percent started using these services during the pandemic and plan to keep using them, and an additional 15 percent are interested in starting digital services. 7 McKinsey Consumer Health Insights Survey , June 24, 2021.

Convenience is not the only concern. Physicians also worry about reimbursement. At the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in the United States, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and several other payers switched to at-parity (equal) reimbursement for virtual and in-person visits. More than half of physician respondents said that if virtual rates were 15 percent lower than in-person rates, they would be less likely to offer telehealth. Telehealth takes investment: traditional providers may need time to transition their capital and operating expenses to deliver virtual care at a cost lower than that of IRL.

Four critical actions for providers to consider

Providers may want to define their IRL/URL care strategy to identify the appropriate places for various types of care—balancing clinical appropriateness with the preferences of physicians and patients.

Determine the most clinically appropriate setting

Clinical appropriateness may be the most crucial variable for deciding how and where to increase the utilization of telehealth. Almost half of physicians said they regard telehealth as appropriate for treatment of ongoing chronic conditions, and 38 percent said they believe it is appropriate when patients have an acute change in health—increases of 26 and 17 percentage points, respectively, since May 2019.

However, physicians remain conservative in their view of telehealth’s effectiveness compared with in-person care. Their opinions vary by visit type (Exhibit 3). Health systems may consider asking their frontline clinical-care delivery teams to determine the clinically appropriate setting for each type of care, taking into account whether physicians are confident that they can deliver equally high-quality care for both IRL and URL appointments.

Assess patient wants and needs in relevant markets and segments

Patient demand for telehealth remains high, but expectations appear to vary by age and income group, payer status, and type of care. Our survey shows that younger people (under the age of 55 ), people in higher income brackets (annual household income of $100,000 or more), and people with individual or employer-sponsored group insurance are more likely to use telehealth (Exhibit 4). Patient demand also is higher for virtual mental and behavioral health. Sixty-two percent of mental-health patients completed their most recent appointments virtually, but only 20 percent of patients logged in to see their primary-care provider, gynecologist, or pediatrician.

To meet market demand effectively, it may be crucial to base care delivery models on a deep understanding of the market, with a range of both IRL and URL options to meet the needs of multiple patient segments.

Partner with physicians to define a new operating model

Many physicians are turning away from the virtual operating model: 62 percent recommended in-person care in April 2021, up five percentage points since September 2020. As physicians evaluate their processes for 2022, 46 percent said they prefer to offer, at most, a couple of hours of virtual care each day. Twenty-nine percent would like to offer none at all—up ten percentage points from September 2020. Just 11 percent would dedicate one full day a week to telehealth, and almost none would want to offer virtual care full time (Exhibit 5).

To adapt to these views, care providers can try to meet the needs and the expectations of physicians. They could offer highly virtualized schedules to physicians who prefer telehealth, while allowing other physicians to remain in-person only. Matching the preferences of physicians may create the best experience both for them and for patients. Greater flexibility and greater control over decisions about when and how much virtual care to offer may also help address chronic physician burnout issues (Exhibit 6). Digital-first solutions (for example, online scheduling, digital registration, and virtual communications with providers) could also increase the reach of in-person-only care providers to the 60 percent of consumers interested in using these digital solutions after the pandemic abates.

Communicate clearly to patients and others

Physicians consistently emerge as the most trusted source of clinical information by patients: 90 percent consider providers  trustworthy for healthcare-related issues. 8 McKinsey Consumer Survey, May 2020. Providers could play a pivotal role in counseling patients on the importance of continuity of care, as well as what can be done safely and effectively by IRL and URL, respectively. The goal is to help patients receive the care that they need in a timely manner and in the most clinically appropriate setting.

Potential benefits to providers

The strategic, purposeful design of a hybrid IRL/URL healthcare delivery model that respects the preferences of patients and physicians and offers virtual care when it is appropriate clinically may allow healthcare providers to participate in the near term, retain clinical talent, offer better value-based care, and differentiate themselves strategically for the future.

Telehealth and broader digital engagement tools have enjoyed persistent patient demand throughout the pandemic. That demand may persist well after it. Investment in digital health companies has grown rapidly—reaching $21.6 billion in 2020, a 103 percent year-over-year increase—which also suggests that this approach to medicine has staying power. 9 Q4 and annual 2020 digital health (healthcare IT) funding and M&A report , Executive Summary, Digital Health Funding and M&A, Mercom Capital Group.

That level of demand offers the potential for growth when physicians can meet it. If only new entrants fully meet consumer demand, traditional providers who do not offer URL options may risk losing market share over time as a result of patients’ initial visit and downstream care decisions. What’s more, as healthcare reimbursement continues to move toward value, virtual-delivery options could become a strategic differentiator that helps providers better manage costs. 10 Brian W. Powers, MD, et al., “Association between primary care payment model and telemedicine use for Medicare Advantage enrollees during the COVID-19 pandemic,” JAMA Network , July 16, 2021.

In all likelihood, one of the critical steps in the process will be engaging physicians in the design of new virtual-care models—for example, determining clinical appropriateness, how and where physicians prefer to deliver care, and the workflows that will maximize their productivity. This has the added benefit of potentially also addressing the problem of physician burnout by offering a range of options for how and where clinicians practice.

Most important, virtual care can offer an opportunity to improve outcomes for patients meaningfully by delivering timely care to those who might otherwise delay it or who live in areas with provider shortages. In addition, patients’ most trusted advisers on care decisions are physicians, so virtual care gives them a meaningful opportunity to help patients access the care they need in a way that both parties may find convenient and appropriate. 11 “Public & physician trust in the U.S. healthcare system,” ABIM Foundation, surveys conducted on December 29, 2020 and February 5, 2021.

Physicians are evaluating a variety of factors for delivering care to patients during and, eventually, after the COVID-19 pandemic. The strategic, purposeful design of a hybrid IRL/URL healthcare delivery model offers a triple unlock: improving the value of healthcare while better meeting consumer demand and improving physicians’ engagement. The full unlock is not easy—it requires deep engagement and cooperation between administrators, clinicians, and frontline staff, as well as focused investment. But it will yield dividends for patients and providers alike in the long run.

Jenny Cordina is a partner in McKinsey’s Detroit office,  Jennifer Fowkes is a partner in the Washington, DC, office,  Rupal Malani, MD , is a partner in the Cleveland office, and  Laura Medford-Davis, MD , is an associate partner in the Houston office.

The article was edited by Elizabeth Newman, an executive editor in the Chicago office.

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Survey reveals mental health struggles among NY first responders

• May 20, 2024 3:09 AM / Updated: May 19, 2024 9:06 PM

A survey conducted by the New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services revealed significant mental health challenges among 6,000 first responders. The assessment highlighted that 38% of respondents exhibited symptoms of PTSD, and many suffered from anxiety and depression.

Commissioner Jackie Bray emphasized the survey’s concerning findings, noting that 16% of first responders had contemplated suicide, a stark contrast to the 4% rate in the general population. Bray attributed these issues to the high stress and trauma first responders regularly encounter and highlighted the stigma surrounding seeking help.

Dr. Andrew Barry, a psychologist, pointed out that fear of judgment and workplace repercussions often prevent first responders from seeking assistance. The survey indicated that over 90% of participants believed free and accessible services like therapy and peer support groups would improve mental health. Programs such as NY CARES UP aim to support first responders, and those in need can contact the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.

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20 Movies & TV Shows That Portray Mental Health With Accuracy

A delicate topic handled with care.

Throughout the years, many films and TV shows have tackled these delicate themes with care, handling mental health with precision and refusing to stigmatize these sensitive issues. As our society becomes more understanding of mental health, and as efforts are made to decrease stigma, it makes sense that popular culture does a better job of reflecting reality.

Some, like What About Bob? , are fictional, humorous looks at what it is to live with a mental health condition. Others, like A Beautiful Mind , are well-crafted biographical examinations of the challenges and stigmas faced by previous generations. At best, having accurate portrayals of mental health in movies and TV shows can bring audiences comfort and show them that they are not alone in their journey. Ranked from least great to incredible with all things considered, these are some of the best movies and shows that deal with mental health , providing audiences with the best examples of psychological disorders in television and film.

20 'Moon Knight' (2022)

Created by doug moench.

Marvel's top-notch television series Moon Knight showcases a little-known Marvel hero, Marc Spector. Spector lives with Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID). This manifests as Marc having at least three alter-egos that have different powers and abilities. He is the avatar of the Egyptian god Khonshu. The talented Oscar Isaac plays each of Spector's alters.

While the adventure TV show didn't delve too deeply into the realities of DID, it did showcase how profound childhood trauma can influence mental health into adulthood. Here, Spector is the victim of childhood abuse. Overall, Moon Knight is touching and accurate , especially considering that the lead protagonist's mental health condition is shown as protecting Spector from this abuse when he needs it most.

Moon Knight

*Availability in US

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19 'Shame' (2011)

Directed by steve mcqueen.

Starring Michael Fassbender , Shame is a British erotic psychological drama film directed by Steve McQueen and co-written by McQueen and Abi Morgan . Its plot revolves around the carefully cultivated private life of a sex addict, which comes crashing down as his sister ( Carey Mulligan ) arrives for an extended stay.

Although certainly not everybody's cup of tea, the divisive Shame provides viewers with an insightful, unconventional take on trauma and its consequences , including how distinct it can look and the ways it can manifest for different people. It is brilliantly acted (Fassbender and Mulligan's performances elevate the movie to higher grounds), provocative, and even hard to watch at times.

18 'black-ish' (2014 - 2022)

Created by kenya barris.

As a comedy, black-ish never shied away from portraying serious issues , which is part of what makes it so great. The Black-led sitcom TV show handled racism and sexism, and the COVID-19 pandemic was among the many real-world issues the series' characters encountered during the series' run. Furthermore, Tracee Ellis Ross received critical acclaim for her role as Dr. Rainbow Johnson.

Rainbow was always one of the show's strongest characters, and her experience with post-partum depression after the birth of her youngest son, DeVante, is handled with grace and honesty. This is an experience that is so often spoken about too little, so any attention to this very common mental health condition will hopefully make others feel less alone.

17 'Spencer' (2021)

Directed by pablo larraín.

In Pablo Larraín 's thought-provoking Spencer , viewers are invited to take a look inside the life of the late and honorable Lady Diana Frances Spencer in a well-executed, emotionally charged biography. Kristen Stewart seamlessly steps into the shoes of the people's princess and the film follows her during the Christmas holidays with the Royal Family at their Sandringham estate in Norfolk, England.

Apart from depicting Princess Diana's existential crisis during a very poignant period in 1991 (when the issues she was faced with reached a boiling point and evidently began to disintegrate), the compelling and beautifully shot Spencer shines a light on Diana's internal and externalized pain related to bulimia (loosely based on specific facts) and extreme loneliness.

16 'What About Bob?' (1991)

Directed by frank oz.

Frank Oz 's What About Bob? tells the story of Bill Murray 's Bob who has a massive list of phobias that interfere with his everyday life. His therapist, Dr. Leo Marvin ( Richard Dreyfuss ), is certain that the answer to all of Bob's problems is his own best-selling book, "Baby Steps." Chaos ensues when Bob can't leave Dr. Marvin alone, even following him while the doctor tries to take a family vacation.

There are several aspects of What About Bob? that are incredibly accurate to the experience of mental health. Bob's experience of experiencing such heavy anxiety that it impacts his daily life is relatable to anyone who has experienced something similar. What may be even more accurate is seeing a mental health practitioner who holds themselves up as having all the answers, exclusively.

What About Bob?

15 'a beautiful mind' (2001), directed by ron howard.

A Beautiful Mind is an inspiring biographical look at the life of John Nash ( Russell Crowe in one of his best performances , for which he earned an Academy Award nom). Nash was a mathematician who lived with schizophrenia. The movie acknowledges the many contributions Nash made to the field of mathematics while acknowledging the very real struggles he faced when his mental health was at its worst.

Evidently, John Nash spent many years in mental health facilities to treat his schizophrenia. His recovery and subsequent successes were what inspired Sylvia Nasar 's biography on which the movie was based. His return to academic work in the 1980s following his many years of treatment featured some of his best work for which he would become known. No doubt, Ron Howard's touching movie is essential viewing when it comes to mental health-related films .

A Beautiful Mind

14 'ted lasso' (2020 - 2023), created by brendan hunt, joe kelly, and bill lawrence.

There is a lot to love about the comedy series Ted Lasso and the American coach who brings his unique brand of optimism to coaching AFC Richmond. Jason Sudeikis leads this lovable football team. In Apple TV's original series, each character is painted as incredibly complex, with their stories that reflect their personalities. One of the most authentic parts of Ted Lasso , however, is its lead's experiences with panic attacks.

What Ted Lasso does so well is showcase that mental health conditions can exist under the surface , so it is not shocking for people who are struggling to seem like they are doing "fine." What makes this storyline poignant is the fact that Ted's friends, including Rebecca ( Hannah Waddingham ), fully support him when he discloses the fact that he experiences panic attacks. Watching Ted become more honest about his reality is inspirational and, undoubtedly, heartwarming.

13 'Sex Education' (2019 - 2023)

Created by laurie nunn.

Sex Education is one of the most popular TV shows about mental health (and physical health, too). It features head boy Jackson Marchetti ( Kedar Williams-Stirling ) as he navigates his experiences at Moordale Secondary School. Despite being a championship swimmer and having a plethora of successes under his belt, Jackson still has to face anxiety and panic attacks.

Jackson's experience with both these struggles is illustrated authentically. The fluctuations in his mental health, depending upon whether he is accessing the right support and is on the correct medication, are very true to life; he is able to continue living his life with these conditions if these supports are in place. The series also offers viewers a complex portrayal of what Black queer teenage years can potentially look like with Eric's ( Ncuti Gatwa ) equal parts heartwarming and heartbreaking, and groundbreaking LGBTQ+ storyline on the show .

Sex Education

12 'the perks of being a wallflower' (2012), directed by stephen chbosky.

Based on Stephen Chbosky 's best-selling young-adult novel, The Perks of Being a Wallflower is one of the most beloved mental health movies out there. In the Logan Lerman -led film, the endearing 15-year-old Charlie is anxious about starting high school. When he befriends his seniors, he learns to deal with his friend's suicide, how to cope with his first love, and how to navigate his turbulent life.

By accurately depicting the signs of PTSD and depression in a young person who had the trauma of sexual abuse as a child, The Perks of Being a Wallflower makes for a deeply moving watch that will likely not leave anyone indifferent. It is worth noting that, like some other films on this list, it features scenes about substance use, suicide, and self-harm that some viewers may find upsetting.

The Perks of Being a Wallflower

11 'silver linings playbook' (2012), directed by david o. russell.

Silver Linings Playbook is a top-tier romantic comedy film starring Jennifer Lawrence (in her Oscar-winning performance) and Bradley Cooper . Cooper plays Pat, a man living with bipolar who's just been discharged from a mental health facility. His character attempts to reconcile with his wife while developing his friendship with Lawrence's Tiffany.

Bipolar disorder is another often misunderstood mental health condition that is often portrayed inaccurately. However, Cooper approaches it through a compassionate and authentic lens in Silver Linings Playbook . Rather than descending into stereotypes about people with bipolar, he brings Pat to life in a very understated way. Furthermore, the film combines humor and drama with incredible results, making for a fun (but also heartbreaking) watch.

Silver Linings Playbook

10 'what's eating gilbert grape' (1993), directed by lasse hallström.

Frequently praised for the astounding performance from a young Leonardo DiCaprio who steps into the shoes of an autistic teenager, the moving and inspirational What's Eating Gilbert Grape tells the story of a young man ( Johnny Depp ) in a small town who struggles to care for his family while also attempting to carve his own path and find happiness for himself.

Lasse Hallström 's movie doesn't solely tackle themes of familial responsibility versus the search for freedom and hope in the face of hopelessness — What's Eating Gilbert Grape offers audiences two thoughtful mental-health-focused narratives : one that illustrates the consequences of prolonged grief, which can sometimes lead to obesity, and the other that sheds light on the challenges of autism. It's a must-watch when it comes to mental health-related films.

What's Eating Gilbert Grape?

Watch on Fubo

9 'Girl, Interrupted' (1999)

Directed by james mangold.

Girl, Interrupted is based on the book of the same name by Susanna Kaysen . Set in a mental health facility , the film is an autobiographical story of Kaysen's experience of being hospitalized, and subsequently being diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder. The movie has an all-star cast, including Winona Ryder , Angelina Jolie (who won an Oscar), Elisabeth Moss , and Whoopi Goldberg among others.

Borderline Personality Disorder is still one mental health condition that is poorly understood and frequently stigmatized. The fact that this was discussed so openly and in such an honest way in 2000 is a credit to Kaysen, and her courage to share her own story. Additionally, this Girl, Interrupted captures the reality of hospitalization for mental health, and it's sobering .

Girl Interrupted

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8 'Requiem for a Dream' (2000)

Directed by darren aronofsky.

Darren Aronosfky 's Requiem for a Dream deserves a place on this list, too, for its sincere portrayal of drug addiction. The 2000 movie tells the story of four Coney Island addicts — Sara ( Ellen Burstyn ) is addicted to amphetamines, while Marion ( Jennifer Connelly ), Tyrone Love ( Marlone Wayans ), and Harry ( Jared Leto ) are all addicted to heroin — whose lives are completely shattered when their seemingly irreversible dependency take charge.

Requiem for a Dream is an intriguing, surrealist movie about mental health in that it explores the terrifying, absolutely devastating consequences of addiction, particularly the abuse of substances, which range from PTSD to depression. Loneliness, desperation, and alienation are three predominant themes explored in Aronofsky's feature that perfectly depicts how drugs affect one's physical and emotional states.

Requiem for a Dream

7 'mommy' (2014), directed by xavier dolan.

After debuting at the Cannes Film Festival, Xavier Dolan 's Mommy went on to win numerous awards. It is a heartbreaking coming-of-age tale following a young boy named Steve and his mother's ( Anne Dorval ) struggles to deal with his violent and unpredictable behavior. When a mysterious neighbor inserts herself into their household, Diane finds hope that things can finally get better.

This well-crafted, superbly written character study doubles as an examination of mother and son relationships as well as mental health issues, more specifically attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and sudden outbursts of rage. Equal parts a feel-good film and a heart-wrenching illustration of a troubled teenagehood, Mommy is an exceptional film that anyone who likes coming-of-age stories should give a go.

Rent on Apple TV

6 'BoJack Horseman' (2014 - 2020)

Created by raphael bob-waksberg.

BoJack Horseman is set in an alternate reality in which humans and anthropomorphized animals live together. The titular main character is a washed-up celebrity who has to navigate his loss of status. He also has to manage the antics of other characters around him along with his issues.

Although the premise of this incredible dark comedy is fantastical, it tackles some very human struggles. BoJack himself lives with alcohol abuse. The series also features intriguing storylines about depression and post-traumatic stress disorder. Of one thing, we're sure: Even though BoJack Horseman is a comedy, it handles mental health issues very seriously, making audiences chuckle in one scene and bawl their eyes out in the other .

BoJack Horseman

5 'normal people' (2020), created by sally rooney.

Normal People broke viewers' hearts when it premiered, and we have Sally Rooney to thank for it. This beautifully written coming-of-age tale of physical and emotional growth introduces viewers to Daisy Edgar Jones ' Marianne and Oscar-nominee Paul Mescal 's Connell, following the two characters as they weave in and out of each other's romantic lives.

In addition to the intriguing portrayal of a somewhat toxic on-and-off relationship (at least to begin with), what makes Normal People so great is the way it handles both Marianne and Connell's mental health and follows their storylines as individuals, depicting their struggles with anxiety and depression and highlighting the subtle ways they can manifest. It is a thoroughly humane and captivating viewing that provides comfort and solace to audience members who may see themselves in these three-dimensional characters.

Normal People

4 'amour' (2012), directed by michael haneke.

Directed by Michael Haneke , this gut-wrenching drama sees an octogenarian couple at its center: Georges ( Jean-Louis Trintignant ) and Anne ( Emmanuelle Riva ), two cultivated and retired music teachers. Their quiet, tranquil, and unbothered life is interrupted when Anne's health starts to decay after she has a stroke. As a result, the couple's years-long connection is put to the test.

The Palme d'Or winner Amour depicts old age and the complications, including the physical and mental issues, that come with it, shedding light on the struggles of Alzheimer's disease and dementia specifically. With a captivating narrative that is guaranteed to stick with viewers and two incredible acting performances, this powerful portrayal is both painful and fascinating, illustrating what unconditional love and devotion look like.

Amour (2012)

Rent on Amazon

3 'Melancholia' (2011)

Directed by lars von trier.

This list would not be complete without Lars von Trier (arguably) best film to date. The essential psychological drama film Melancholia stars Kirsten Dunst and Charlotte Gainsbourg as two sisters whose strained relationship is put to the test when a mysterious new planet threatens to collide with Earth. In the meantime, it provides viewers with their very different points of view, making for an intriguing character study.

Dunst's central performance as a woman struggling with depression in the second entry in von Trier's unofficially titled Depression Trilogy is one of the feature's strongest aspects. Additionally, the movie's depiction of declining mental stability is striking and memorable, easily resulting in one of the finest films about mental health ever made . A masterpiece in the genre, even.

Melancholia

2 'one flew over the cuckoo's nest' (1975), directed by milos forman.

Widely regarded as one of the best films ever made, One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest is based on the novel of the same name by Ken Kesey . Randle McMurphy ( Jack Nicholson ) is an in-patient in a mental health facility, ruled by the cruel Nurse Ratched ( Louise Fletcher ). What follows is a meditation on tyranny and the enduring human spirit.

Perhaps the most accurate part of this Milos Forman movie is how cruel the mental healthcare system has treated patients in the past . Barbaric treatments are shown horrifyingly, making for a sad commentary on how far the medical system has come and how far left there still is to go. One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest is the second film to win all five major Oscars: Best Picture, Best Actor (Nicholson), Best Actress (Fletcher), Director, and Screenplay.

One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest

1 'black swan' (2010).

Black Swan is a complex obsession-destroys-the-artist type of film surrounding an extremely dedicated dancer ( Natalie Portman ) who has landed a part in a production of "Swan Lake" by Tchaikovsky . With one of the most intriguing takes on womanhood in horror , this 2010 film depicts how difficult it is to maintain one's mental health stability when dealing with extreme performance anxiety (in addition to sharing a home with an overprotective parent).

Darren Aronofsky's haunting feature is considered a masterpiece by many , and that also has to do with the way the reasonable way it depicts the psychosis that Nina experiences. In addition to this, the film also addresses disordered eating, anxiety disorder, and obsessive-compulsive behaviors.

NEXT: Great Teen Shows Addressing Mental Health