Mind the Gap: The Cost of Mental Health Disparities

Understanding Mental Health Disparities in the U.S.

One in five U.S. adults live with a mental illness, but access to treatment remains a challenge. This issue is particularly severe for lower-income people and minority populations. These groups face a higher burden of both mental health and chronic conditions, which worsen their economic hardships.

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Disparities in Mental Health Treatment

Treatment rates for mental illness vary greatly across different demographic groups. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), Non-Hispanic White adults are more than twice as likely to receive treatment compared to Asian Americans. Hispanic or Latino and Black or African American communities also have lower treatment rates, though slightly higher than Asian Americans.

The Economic Impact of Mental Health Inequities

A new report from the School of Global Health at Meharry Medical College explores the economic impact of mental health disparities in the U.S. The findings are alarming, showing significant projected costs if these inequities are not addressed.

Barriers to Mental Health Treatment

Various barriers prevent racial and ethnic minority groups, as well as marginalized, rural, and under-resourced populations, from accessing mental health treatment. These barriers include:

• Lack of access to healthcare services
• Stigma surrounding mental health
• Economic challenges
• Cultural and language differences

Addressing the Unique Needs of Diverse Communities

Racially and ethnically diverse communities have unique mental health needs that require targeted approaches. The economic cost of not investing in mental health services, treatments, and programs is substantial.

Policy Solutions to Improve Mental Health Equity

To address these inequities, policymakers need to take action. This includes:

• Increasing funding for mental health services
• Implementing policies to reduce stigma
• Promoting integrated and equitable care

Upcoming Event: Minority Mental Health Awareness Month

In July, in honor of Minority Mental Health Awareness Month, The Hill will host an event to discuss the findings of Meharry School of Global Health’s 2024 study, “The Projected Costs and Economic Impact of Mental Health Inequities in the United States.” This event will feature administration officials, lawmakers, medical providers, and advocates who will discuss how to address the mental health needs of underserved communities.

Program Segments

Headliners Interview | Mental Health Policy, Not Politics

• Rep. Lisa McClain (R-MI), Co-Chair, Task Force on Mental Health & Substance Use Disorder
• Rep. Ritchie Torres (D-NY), Member, House Financial Services Committee; Founder, Clubhouse Caucus

Report Overview | Projected Costs and Economic Impact

• Daniel Dawes, Founding Dean & SVP, Meharry School of Global Health, Meharry Medical College; Author, The Political Determinants of Health

Panel Discussion | Advocating for Equity

• Daniel Gillison, CEO, National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)
• Dr. Patrice Harris, Co-Founder & CEO, eMed; Former President, American Medical Association (AMA)
• Dr. Gary Puckrein, President & CEO, National Minority Quality Forum
• Chris DeCou, Head – Global Behavioral Health, Amazon

Sponsor Perspective | Otsuka

• Caroline Fisher-O’Neill, Director – Alliance Development, Government Affairs & Public Policy, Otsuka America Pharmaceutical Inc.
• Greselda Butler, Director – Independent Medical Education & External Relations, Otsuka Pharmaceutical Development & Commercialization

Headliner Interview | Mental Health Inequities

• Dr. Billina Shaw, Senior Medical Advisor, Center for Mental Health Services, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)

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References

• National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): Mental Health Disparities
• School of Global Health at Meharry Medical College: Report on Mental Health Inequities
• Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA): Mental Health Resources