Our nation has been experiencing a mental health crisis for several years, marked by an alarming rise in mental illness that shows no signs of slowing down. 23% of adults experienced a mental illness in the past year, compared to 18% in 2008.
Some good news is that mental health challenges are gradually becoming less stigmatized, empowering more individuals to seek help. In fact, the rate of adults who sought and received treatment increased from 19% in 2019 to 22% in 2023. However, up to 60% of people with mental health conditions do not respond to conventional treatments such as therapy or medications. This is a concerning figure.
All of this tells us that patients want help, but as a society, we aren’t always giving them the help they need. Something needs to change. And fast.