Third, not only are mental disorders and mental health problems real, they are treatable. A scientific revolution has taken place over the last 25 years in our understanding of mental health and mental illness that has resulted in a vast array of safe and effective options to treat mental disorders. These treatments will allow people with mental disorders to return to productive life. But there is also unsettling news in this report. While mental illness strikes 1 in 5 Americans each year, more than half of those who need treatment do not get it, either because they do not seek it or they do not have access to it.
Stigmas are major barriers to access.
Only 27 states have enacted laws requiring even limited forms of parity between mental health benefits and other health benefits. And the lack of access to mental health care has driven far too many of our most vulnerable populations to our streets, jails and prisons. Mental illness can affect anyone, and few Americans are untouched by mental health problems. The results can be devastating and lead to a diminished quality of life, poverty, unemployment and homelessness. Mental health problems are not new, but discussing them on a national level is.