Mental Health Programming is Essential for the Community

America’s mental health crisis has reached alarming heights, affecting millions of patients and families. According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), about 1 in 5 adults in the U.S. live with some type of mental illness.?

Hospitals may avoid adding psychiatric service lines because of the challenges involved with treating such complex patient populations. Yet, providing quality mental health services can create the opportunity for local hospitals to offer something extraordinary and essential within their healthcare community.?

Behavioral health programming is good for the neighborhood

Despite the growing demand for mental health services, access to psychiatric programs can remain a significant barrier in some areas. Many patients can face long wait times for appointments or lack the proper health insurance coverage. Many depressed behavioral health patients simply don’t know where to go for help – or who to ask.?

This gap in mental health education and resources can lead to devastating consequences for patients. People without access to affordable, reliable mental health services in the area may experience higher rates of suicide, substance abuse and homelessness, according to NIMH.?

To address this crisis, it’s essential for people already working in healthcare to advocate loudly for broader mental health resources. With stakeholder buy-in and grassroots support, additional access to quality psychiatric services in your community might include:

• Increasing funding for mental health programs in hospitals and emergency departments (ED)
• Expanding telehealth services and online digital support?
• Integrating mental health services into primary care settings
• Creating public awareness to destigmatize mental health?
• Producing educational and community resource lists for schools and work?
• Constructing separate mental health units for psychiatric emergencies within the hospital
• Sustaining community organizations and support groups for patients?

Strengthening communities with behavioral health programming??

Integrating psychiatric programs into regional hospitals and emergency departments may improve patient outcomes and long-term support services. Since many behavioral health patients are also diagnosed with co-occurring health issues, diagnosis may be especially complicated (an example of co-occurring conditions is treating a behavioral health patient with depression who’s also suffering from obesity or heart disease).?

Public demand for mental health services is on the rise. By expanding psychiatric treatments hospitals can attract a broader patient base, increasing their revenue streams. Mental health services can be a significant source of income, especially as insurance coverage for mental health continues to skyrocket.?

Huge demand for behavioral health treatments and specialty staffing??

The mental health crisis in America has highlighted the disparities in access to care among different populations, particularly marginalized communities. In poor or underserved neighborhoods, patients may face additional barriers such as socioeconomic challenges, cultural stigma and lack of skilled providers.?

Addressing these disparities helps ensure that all patients have equal access to mental health services. Community-based initiatives, such as mobile clinics and outreach programs, can help bring services directly to those in need. By prioritizing equity in mental health care, people work towards a more inclusive system that serves everyone more effectively.

The role of continuing education in mental health is vital for adoption. By introducing early mental health education into schools, workplaces and community organizations, patients become empowered with the knowledge and tools they need to address their health issues.?

Everyone has a role to play. By working together, hospitals, providers, staff and caregivers can create an environment where mental health is prioritized.

Mental health is an integral part of overall wellness and by offering quality behavioral health services, hospitals can address a critical need in their communities. Hospitals and other healthcare facilities face increasing pressure to provide more comprehensive care. Adding well-rounded psychiatric services in your facility can be a strategic move that benefits both the community and the hospital.?

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Call 800-727-2407 or complete the online interest form to learn more about Horizon Health’s Behavioral Health Solutions. We partner with hospitals to provide effective staffing solutions, clinical resources, community education and regulatory compliance.