The Time is Now to Bring Mental Health into the Mainstream

By Roi Shternin

Mental health issues affect millions, yet accessing care remains a challenge. We must work to make mental healthcare as readily available as visiting a general practitioner.

Just as we treat physical illness by consulting doctors, we should treat mental health issues by consulting psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists and counselors. Both merit equal attention and care.

For too long, stigma and lack of understanding have forced those struggling with anxiety, depression, addiction and other issues into the shadows. We tell them to "get over it" or "cheer up," deepening their pain. This must end. Mental healthcare should become as mainstream and accessible as calling your doctor when you have the flu.

Progress requires insurance coverage. While parity laws exist, insurers exploit loopholes restricting access to care. We must demand true parity, where mental healthcare coverage equals physical healthcare. No restraints, no exceptions.

We also need more providers. The US faces a dire shortage, with some areas designated "mental health professional shortage areas." We must grow the workforce, including psychiatrists, psychiatric nurses, psychologists and licensed therapists. Retention is also key, by ensuring reasonable workloads and compensation.

Access means proximity. Mental healthcare should be available in local communities through clinics, group practices and telehealth. Home-based and mobile crisis services can also meet people where they are. No one should have to drive hours or be placed on long waitlists to get help.

Schools must support students through counselors, social workers and campus clinics. Workplaces should offer mental health benefits, including access to counselors and online tools. Communities can host low-cost clinics serving the uninsured.

The goal is a seamless system of mental healthcare integrated into everyday life. One that offers help, hope and humanity to all who struggle with psychological, emotional and psychiatric concerns. Where the open door to healing is never closed.

The moment to act is now. We have lost too many lives from neglecting this critical need. The tools exist to build a robust mental healthcare system for all. What remains is the collective will to say enough suffering, enough stigma, enough barriers to care. The time for change is upon us. Together, we can create a society where mental healthcare is accessible to all, allowing people to live healthier, more fulfilling lives. There is no challenge greater, nor effort more worthy.

Roi Shternin is a healthcare visionary and patient advocate leading the revolution to transform systems through empowerment and innovation. After overcoming a rare illness himself, he founded organizations and the Patient School to educate and give patients power over their health. His inspiring story and commitment to collaborative solutions make him uniquely positioned to drive impactful change.

Find his work here: linker.ee/imroi