Mental Health Has More Data Than Ever So Why Is Care Still So Hard to Access

Mental health is still a challenge for some people to access. Despite their being a wealth of data available, systematic issues and funding gaps mean it’s still a luxury or something that’s limited for those who desperately need it.

There are many key factors that contribute to this disconnect and this guide will cover those attributes. Not only that but it’ll give helpful tips on how to access mental health support for those who need it, and even those who don’t but may do so in the future. 

Having access to mental health support is something that every person should receive because life certainly comes with it’s fair share of challenges. Let’s take a look at why mental health access can be so hard to achieve.

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Key factors that contribute to the disconnect 

There are a number of key factors that contribute to the disconnect between the wealth of data available and the care that’s available for those who need mental health support.

Workforce shortages and high demand

With the number of people actively seeking mental health support, its put a strain on what little available resources are available. There’s a high demand for mental health support but the number of trained staff available from nurses to psychologists and psychiatrists, has not kept up with the pace.

As a result, this leads to long waiting times and high thresholds for treatment in general. 

Funding gaps

There’s a problem with funding too when it comes to mental health services. A lot of these services arw idely considered to be underfunded in relation to the need required. This impacts staffing levels, infrastructure and the ability to meet the demands that are forever rising.

The lack of funding also means that those who are particularly vulnerable and in a lower income bracket, are more at risk of danger by not having the help readily available.

Implementation barrier

There can often be a disconnect between the data and research findings on effective treatments, with th actual implementation of these interventions in clinical settings. This gap is typically due to a lack of research capacity for implementation science. Not only that but the challenges in integrating new and evidence-based practices within existing systems.

Fragmented systems and data silos

The health and social care systems are often fragmented. This makes it difficult for different parts of the system to work together, as well as sharing information effectively. The lack of interoperability between different IT systems, hinders coordinated patient care.

Stigma and altitudinal barriers

You’ve also got the stigma of mental health, as well as altitudinal barriers. Despite increased awareness, stigma surrounding mental illness often persists and remains a major barrier to people that are seeking the help they need, early on. Many people also wish to handle the problems that they have, on their own. 

It’s often a fear of how they’ll be perceived by family members or employers in being seen to ask for mental health support.

Logistical and financial hurdles

The cost of treatment, even with insurance, often remains a barrier for many who are trying to access mental health assistance. Other practical issues that are present, include the lack of available services that aren’t available in certain geographic areas. These rural areas are often the ones that get very little mental health care.

There’s also the complexity that comes with navigating referral pathways too.

Data access and usage issues

While there is plenty of available data, researchers often find they face bureaucratic processes, along with long delays. Accessing patient-level data can prove time-consuming and that slows down the generation of evidence required for policy makers and practioners alike.

There’s also the challenge of ensuring digital tools and data analytics are being used equitably and are acceptable to both diverse populations and clinicians in general.

How to get help for your mental health needs 

So what can you do personally to get help for your mental health needs? Well, there are a number of steps that you can take in order to get the support you require.

Firstly, the use of emergency services should be used, especially when it comes to immediate crisis support or general emotional distress. Immediate and Crisis Support is available 24/7 and is often used for those who are suicidal or in crisis. Offering free and confidential support, this can be helpful for many people to know about.

There are a number of long-term care and resources available too, which are helpful to know about. These include the following

Provider directories 

There are some great resources out there, including organizations like NAMI or MHA who provide resources and licensed professionals on their database. From therapists to counselors and social workers, they’re all useful to be aware of. Great DBT therapists in NYC with insurance are hard to find but with these directories, finding one can be made easier.

Affordable care

The use of health resources and services adminstration (HRSA) locator can be helpful to find local health centers that offer mental health services.

Substance use

There are some helpful resources, tools and contacts out there for helping those who need advice or guidance with substance use. Tools like FindTreatment.gov are handy to know about especially.

Telehealth

Telehealth has become increasingly popular in recent years and so exploring virtual mental health support options is certainly worthwhile.

Know what types of mental health professionals are out there to help

It’s always good to know what types of mental health professionals are out there and how they can help. These include the following

• Pyschiatrists – Medical doctors that can prescribe medication
• Pyschologists – Have a PsyD or PhD and offer therapy but usually not medication
• Licensed counselors and therapists – These provide individual, group or family therapy
• Psychiatric nurse practitioners – Advanced practice nurses that have the ability to both diagnose and prescribe where required.

While there’s plenty of mental health data available, it seems the lack of funding and workforce, really sets back the potential that could be achieved if these problems were addressed.