Resources

Statistics and Links: www.nimh.nih.gov

National Institute of Mental Health

Understanding the scope of mental illnesses and their treatment is central to the mission of the NIMH. Much of what we understand in this area comes from research in the field of epidemiology, the scientific study of patterns of health and illness within a population. Research on mental health epidemiology shows that mental disorders are common throughout the United States, affecting tens of millions of people each year, and that, overall, only about half of those affected receive treatment.

 

In 2015, there were an estimated 43.4 million adults aged 18 or older in the United States with AMI (any mental illness) within the past year. This number represented 17.9% of all U.S. adults.

 

Mental Health: www.mentalhealth.gov

Mental Health Problems Affect Everyone

Myth: Mental health problems don’t affect me

Fact: Mental health problems are actually very common. In 2014, about:

One in five American adults experienced a mental health issue

One in 10 young people experienced a period of major depression

One in 25 Americans lived with a serious mental illness, such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or major depression

 

Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the United States. It accounts for the loss of more than 41,000 American lives each year, more than double the number of lives lost to homicide.

 

National Suicide Prevention Hotline: 1-800-273-8255

www.suicidepreventionhotline.org

 

We can all help prevent suicide. The Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals.

 

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration

www.samhsa.gov