COVID-19 is making an impact across the globe on many different levels. People are concerned about the economy, employment, access to food and many other things. Something that continues to stand out is how this pandemic is taking a toll on mental health and substance use disorder needs.
The Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF) recently released a series of state fact sheets that take a look at mental health and substance use disorder needs. What stood out is in June alone 36.5% of adults in the United States reported that they have symptoms of anxiety, depression, and stress related to COVID-19. Additionally, those with substance use disorders are in need of care and due to COVID-19 those resources are extremely limited.
With telehealth on the rise, what can be done to reach those in need of mental health and substance use disorder services?
Replies
NIH did a good article build on this discussion. The Connection Between Substance Use Disorders and Mental Illness stated many individuals who develop substance use disorders (SUD) are also diagnosed with mental disorders, and vice versa. Multiple national population surveys have found that about half of those who experience a mental illness during their lives will also experience a substance use disorder and vice versa.