Information
Last Updated: 11.6.2018
Contact: [email protected]
E-Counseling.com is a mental health site that has a directory of therapists in most cities around the nation. They need help developing more city-specific articles that talk about mental health and where people can find help. We will be writing city pages that target mental health issues in that city, statistics and then give the reader resources in that city (using the client’s directory) for finding help.
Target Audience:
Anyone seeking help for mental health, whether for themselves or a loved one.
Tone/Voice:
Professional, not casual. Be authoritative on the subject, but helpful and welcoming. Should be instructive, engaging and of value.
Keywords:
- Use the keyword naturally within the content at least once.
Format:
The article should cover the subject of mental health concerns and treatment options that are unique to that specific city (state data should be used as a last resort if there isn’t any city data available – but PLEASE make sure you try to find city data first).
- Article should be broken up into multiple sections:
- Put the headers in H1 and H2 format in Word
- First is “An Overview of Mental Health in (City name)” – this is also the title of the article
- Other sections you could include as subheaders:
- “Mental Health Resources in (City Name)”
- “The Challenge of Finding a Suitable Therapist in (City Name)”
- etc. You can add your own sections, too – see the examples for ideas.
- Items covered in the article may include:
- How the specific geography, climate, education and income levels of that city impact the state of mental health for residents – use statistics and link to a couple sources.
- Number of professional therapists in the city (link to the source)
- Divorce rates in that area (state is ok if no city data is available. How it compares to national average, highlighting the importance of seeking marriage counseling (link to the source)
- Physical location of city (situated, layout, size). Famous aspect of city (athletic team, college town, company hub etc)
- City information (population, socio economic breakdown, number of public schools, amount of people per age bracket, high school/college graduates, ethnic composition, languages spoken, divorce rat, number of hospitals, schools, colleges)
- Mental Health within City (drug use, crimes profile, psychologists/psychiatrists in the area) Mental Health statistics on the city, Mental health resources such as clinics, hospitals and non-profits serving that city, number of professional therapists in the city (need to link to the source)
- Resources within City (Suicide prevention line, Main Police Precinct information, Teen Pregnancy hotline, Mental Hospital, Abuse Hotline ) with hyperlinks
- Final paragraph/section should be simple and just quickly discuss how E-Counseling’s therapist directory (see link in URL column of live sheet) was created to help those in need of therapy find trusted professionals in that city. Should only be a couple of sentences. DO NOT LINK TO THEIR DIRECTORY IN THE LAST PARAGRAPH.
Other Notes:
- Do NOT link to the exact same URL more than once in an article.
- Do NOT link to the same source domain multiple times in the same paragraph
- For instance if you found links on a few different pages of the same site, you can use those different links, but just not in the same paragraph.
- Do NOT hyperlink to more than one or two words in a sentence
- Do NOT quote or use sources from Psychology Today
- Do NOT cite your sources at the bottom of the article
- Only really need about 7-12 links total in the article
- Sources should be .gov, .org, .edu
- Only use .com references if they are to major news cites.
Helpful Resource Links:
https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/fact/table/US/PST045218
https://www.areavibes.com/search/
https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/mental-illness.shtml
- Save file as “An Overview of Mental Health in (City Name, State)” and send to [email protected]
- In subject line put “E-Counseling – City Pages”
Overview of Mental Health Resources in Richmond, Virginia
Richmond, Virginia is one of the oldest major cities in the United States. The city itself is located on the James River. The economy of Richmond is driven by law firms, banks and government. It is not like a lot of other big cities with a large mixture of businesses. The city is an independent city made up of historic districts. It also is home to several African American wards, made up of working-class communities. Richmond enjoys a seasonal climate, with hot and humid summers and cold, snowy winters. There are about 220,000 people living in the city with a per-capita income much lower than the national average at just $30,000. In fact, over 26% of the population of Richmond, Virginia is living in poverty. These statistics alone can predict that Richmond will have a high number of people suffering from mental health disorders. Poverty alone is a strong indicator and cause for depression and anxiety. It also can lead to substance abuse issues and suicide.
Mental Health Statistics for Richmond
In Virginia, over a million people suffer from sort of mental health issues. About a third of these qualify as suffering from a serious mental illness. The problem becomes compounded when we look at substance abuse in Virginia. Over a quarter of a million people in Virginia are suffering from both drug or alcohol abuse and a mental health disorder. The two do tend to go hand in hand. More than half of the people in Virginia who have a mental health disorder are not treated. One of the problems in Virginia has to do with Medicaid. It is believed that if Virginia were to expand their Medicaid program, more than 80,000 people suffering from a mental health illness would be covered for treatment.
Impact of Not Receiving Treatment in Richmond, Virginia
Virginia is aware that they don’t have the resources to effectively treat people suffering from a mental illness. Part of this is financial and some of this is informational. People simply do not know how or where to go to seek mental health assistance. Richmond has a large proportion of people who are experiencing poverty. This means that not only do these people not have medical insurance, but they are also more prone to become depressed. Some of the problems Richmond is experiencing due to a lack of mental health care are:
- One of the highest suicide rates in the country
- Overcrowded jails
- Substance abuse
- Unemployment
- Homelessness
If Medicaid is expanded, it will help reach some of the people suffering from mental illness. However, it will do little to improve the information system for residents in Richmond. This is why it’s so important that there be an efficient mental health counseling directory in Richmond, Virginia.
What Makes Richmond Unique When it Comes to Mental Health?
Although Richmond is an older, historic city, its residents suffer from problems just like in any other major city.
- Culture: Over 60% of the population in Richmond are minorities. Minorities tend to go without mental health treatment more so than whites.
- Education: Only 36% of the people in Richmond have a college degree. This makes it harder for these people to get well-paying jobs that come with mental health benefits.
- Unemployment Rate: Nashville’s unemployment rate is 3.9%, a bit higher than other U.S. cities.
- Socioeconomic Factors: Given the lower median-income, residents of Richmond are less likely to have the means and resources to seek mental health treatment.
Divorce Rate in Richmond
Years ago, Virginia had just as high a divorce rate as the rest of the country. Today, it has one of the lowest at just 10%. It actually has one of the lowest divorce rates in the country. Now, this could mean that Virginia truly is for lovers. Or this could be because fewer people are getting married in Virginia. Couples in Richmond could certainly benefit from couples’ therapy and counseling. Perhaps it could lead to more couples marrying. It could also improve the relationships of many couples living in the Richmond area.
Mental Health Resources in Richmond
Because of a long-term issue with mental health resources, Virginia actually receives over $11 million every year in federal aid. This money is meant to help provide mental health and substance abuse resources to the people of Virginia. Even with this aid, however, there are many people in Richmond who do not have access to mental health treatment. As mentioned above, over a million people in Virginia suffer from a mental illness. Yet half of these go without treatment.
E-Counseling Solves the Challenge of Finding a Therapist in Richmond
E-Counseling strives to provide the people of Richmond with a user-friendly, integrated resource for mental health care. If people had information on how and where to get mental health assistance, fewer people would continue to suffer.
An Overview of Mental Health Resources in Corona, California
The beautiful and popular city of Corona is located in Riverside County, California. It is home to approximately 167,836 people, according to 2017 statistics from the U.S. Census Bureau. Residents are treated with jaw-droppingly pretty views of the nearby Santa Ana Mountains and national forests. It is clear to anybody that sees the town how abundant and important nature is there. Furthermore, the city of Corona is not short on entertainment. Thanks to the good number of amenities in convenient locations, you’re never more than a quick walk or drive away from any shopping experience. The city is well-known for being the home of the massive Cajalco shopping center.
While the bustling city of Corona might be teeming with life and activity, that does not mean it is free of all problems. For example, there is a high rate of unemployment amongst the city’s citizenry, worsening the economic situations of many. Unemployment is ancillary to a bigger problem at hand. Officials in the area describe Corona as going through a “mental health crisis.” But, what does that mean? Let’s go over what mental health in Corona is like, why the situation in the city is particularly poor, and what you can do to reach out for help and get in contact with a therapist who can help you if you are in need.
An Overview of Mental Health in Corona, California
The overall state of mental health in Corona is in decline. That being said, the problem is not contained to just the city, nor the county of Riverside. The United States as a whole in addition to the entire state of California is experiencing a lack of access to mental health care as well as skyrocketing rates of mental illness. According to a study published by Mental Health America, more than 40 million Americans have a mental health condition. As per a separate 2017 report from Mental Health America, the state of California is amongst the top 50 percent of states regarding the prevalence of mental illness.
In this context and for future reference, the term mental illness refers to any disorder of the mind one can experience, ranging in severity; under the umbrella is anything from clinical depression and anxiety to schizophrenia, for example. So, why is it that Corona, in particular, is having to deal with the harsher side of America’s mental health crisis? First of all, low-income and poverty is a big concern for the city. As per statistics from the Department of Labor, the unemployment rate in Corona is almost ten percent higher than the national average. It is unfortunate that the rate of jobless individuals is so high. One can assume that the lack of jobs in the area reflects the generally poor economic health of the city. Moreover, there is an undeniable statistical link between poverty and mental illness.
According to a study commissioned by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, American adults living under the federal poverty level are more than two times as likely to be diagnosed with a mental health condition than their higher-earning counterparts. As poverty swells, so does mental illness. The cost of living in Corona is quite high relative to the rest of the United States. The cost of housing alone is dramatically steeper. According to Area Vibes, it is roughly 90 percent higher than the national average. A middle to high-income is a requirement of decent living in Corona. However, the average income per capita is around six percent lower than the national average of $29,829, as per the U.S. Census Bureau. The reality of the situation is that Corona requires a higher cost of living than much of the rest of the nation, but its residents earn less at the same time. High costs coupled with low compensation is a recipe for disaster.
The Trouble of Finding a Suitable Therapist in Corona, California
The inconvenient truth is that accessibility to mental health care is low for all of America. As per a study from Mental Health America, an estimated a majority of American adults with a mental illness do not receive any form of treatment, even if they may require it. Experts blame the general absence of care on a myriad of reasons, including legislative policies that were poorly executed, poverty, and stigma. Some people also feel overwhelmed after deciding to take the step to find a therapist. It’s best to write down a list of reasonable goals you wish to attain throughout your therapy sessions. The U.S. Census Bureau estimates that 15 percent of Corona residents are living without any health insurance. Unfortunately, very few of these people are able to afford the out-of-pocket expense of counseling.
Mental Health Resources in Corona, California
The good news for those that need assistance with mental health in Corona is that there is a large number of facilities to seek help from. Riverside County Mental Health, for example, is a local mental health clinic servicing citizen of Corona and the surrounding areas. Moreover, the Corona Regional Medical Center is a renowned facility in the area providing a bevy of behavioral health services to those in need.
E-Counseling.com’s therapist directory was created to help those in need of mental health assistance via counseling find trusted professionals in your area. Settle for the best experience by using our directory to find a therapist fit just for you.
Overview of Mental Health in Carrolton, Texas
Mental health is as important to an individual as their physical health, but it may be overlooked because the symptoms are hard to see, education is hard to come by and help is often hard to find. Mental health can be affected by relationship problems, a sudden death of a loved one, anxiety, depression and stress, but the good news is it doesn’t have to last forever. There is professional help wherever you are located if you just know where to look.
Carrolton, Texas, is home to close to 150,000 people, splitting almost evenly down the middle between men and women. The city surpasses the state average when it comes to citizens with graduate degrees, and the most popular religion is Evangelical Protestant. The unemployment rate is significantly lower than the average and the median age is over the state average. Around 48 percent of people in the city have a healthy diet rate.
As with most cities, there are also those who struggle, and no city is immune to mental illness. Compared to the rest of the state, slightly more Carrolton residents feel bad about themselves and sleep less at night. According to the last census report, over ten percent of the population lives in poverty. Over 20 percent of residents have no health insurance and over four percent have some type of disability. The lack of health insurance can make it extremely difficult for those who need help to actually get it.
Illness, disability, lack of sleep, feelings of worthlessness and financial worries can all affect your mental health. As the residents of Carrolton face these challenges, we are here to make sure they have the correct resources to face them in a health manner.
Divorce Rates in Texas
In Texas, almost 40 percent of the population is married, with the divorced population hovering close to 11 percent. Mental illness can affect divorce rates in two ways. First, if one individual deals with some type of mental illness, it can often lead to problems that cause divorce. Second, those who have been through a divorce are more likely to suffer from depression, anxiety and other mental health problems.
Mental Health Concerns in Texas
In Texas and children aged 9-17, at least 20 percent will have some type of diagnosed mental illness and 20 percent of adults every year deal with some type of mental health concern. According to Mental Health American of Greater Dallas, that means over 1.4 million children and over 5 million adults. In contrast, only 211,000 residents receive community-based services for mental health.
There are many serious consequences for those with mental illness who go without treatment. Some of those include:
- Homelessness
- Incarceration
- Episodes of violence
- Suicide
- Victimization
The quality of life for those with untreated mental illness is often dismal. To combat the effects of these conditions, it’s vital that communities provide access to quality mental health services to every single citizen.
Untreated mental illness is also extremely expensive for the government. Incarceration costs, hospital bills and violent episodes require the city and state to put forth resources they may not have. The obvious alternative solution is to treat mental illness early and know that the long-term benefits are worth the up-front costs.
Mental Health Resources in Carrolton
Mental illness is not something that you must suffer from your entire life and it can sneak up on you when you least expect it. According to The National Institute of Mental Health, common mental health disorders include:
- Bipolar disorder
- Schizophrenia
- Anxiety disorders
- Eating disorders
- Post-traumatic stress disorder
- Autism spectrum disorder
- Suicide
- Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
- Depression
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder
If you fear your mental health is influenced by one of these disorders, the Texas Health and Human Services department provides a directory of resources available to residents. Resources include Carrolton Springs, Behavioral Health Centers of America, Center for Court Approved Counseling, American Addiction Centers and a long list of highly-qualified therapists and psychiatrists experienced in handling a variety of mental health disorders.
E-Counseling Solves the Challenge of Finding a Therapist in Carrolton
E-Counseling strives to provide an integrated, user-friendly source for the people of Carrolton for mental health care. To minimize the suffering of those who suffer from mental illness, we work to provide the resources to find help as quickly as possible.
An Overview of Mental Health in Coral Springs, Florida
The 133,000 residents of Coral Springs, Florida benefit from warm weather, sunny skies, good schools, a diverse population and a low crime rate. With the Everglades in their backyard and stunning beaches a short drive away, Coral Springs residents live in a beautiful and idyllic part of the country. With its central location near Palm Beach and Fort Lauderdale, there are many job opportunities nearby. Although some people may lament that there is not much to do in the Broward County town – even the popular Butterfly World is technically in neighboring Coconut Creek, Florida – everything you need is just a short drive away.
While there are many benefits to living in Coral Springs, sunny skies do not make this city immune to major life challenges such as divorce, depression, anxiety, mental illness, eating disorders, chronic illness, substance abuse, trauma or grief. Some challenges specific to this region include:
- Career Competition: Residents in relatively affluent communities often feel pressure to keep up and continue succeeding professionally. These career difficulties can lead to stress, anxiety, burnout and other long-term health problems.
- Long-term Illness: Broward County has higher rates for HIV and infectious syphilis than the state and nation overall. Managing these long-term illnesses presents unique mental health challenges.
- Wealth Disparity: While the median household income is $67,702, the per capita income is $30,444. This indicates a notable wealth disparity and studies have shown a high correlation between poverty and depression.
- Integration: The latest census shows that 28% of residents were born in another country. This makes for a wonderfully diverse city with multiple languages spoken, but these residents may encounter difficulty with the transition to a new country and culture.
- Suicide: The suicide rate in Florida has increased around 20% over the past ten years. Within Broward County, the highest rate of deaths by suicide are in the 45 to 54 category, followed by 35 to 44 and 55 to 64.
Also, one of the most horrific acts of violence in recent US history occurred less than 10 minutes away from Coral Springs. The shooting at Marjorie Stoneman Douglas High School in neighboring Parkland, Florida in February 2018 shocked the nation and was especially traumatic for residents in nearby cities. The grief and trauma related to this tragedy is likely to require long-term, specially-trained mental health care.
The Challenge of Finding a Suitable Therapist in Coral Springs
One of the biggest challenges to finding a therapist in Coral Springs is a lack of health insurance and state aid. The uninsured rate for Broward County is higher than that of the US. Further, there is little assistance available at the state level. Florida provides only $39 per resident in mental health funding. Despite the state ranking it at 50th in the nation in terms of mental health funding, the budget continues to be slashed.
Unfortunately, counseling services can be expensive without insurance, especially for the 10.3% of residents living in poverty. Some counselors offer non-conventional counseling services such as telephone or video sessions or know of non-profits which provide counseling on a sliding scale which could help with payment difficulties.
Mental Health Resources in Coral Springs, Florida
For anyone dealing with mental health challenges personally or who has a loved one who is suffering, be reassured that there is hope. Coral Springs has many resources available including licensed mental health counselors (LMHC), licensed clinical social workers (LCSW) and licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT). There is a wide range of service providers whether you are seeking a private practice, community counseling, detox center or long-term care facility.
Counselors in the area have extensive experience helping clients through grief, coping with chronic illnesses, career challenges, relationship and parenting difficulties, persistent mental illnesses, substance abuse recovery and physical, sexual and emotional trauma. They use a variety of methods including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), trauma-focused CBT, goal-based counseling, solution-focused therapy and motivational interviewing. Their approaches are non-judgmental, safe and customized to help each client live a more fulfilled life.
Find a Therapist in Coral Springs
When you are in the grips of a mental health challenge, it may seem like there is no hope. E-Counseling’s therapist directory was created for this express purpose: to make the recovery process easier by providing a comprehensive list of mental health counselors in your area. Help is nearby. Check out our directory to find a licensed counselor in Coral Springs to help you on your journey.
An Overview of Mental Health in Kent, Washington
The city of Kent, Washington is the sixth-largest in the state, with a reported population of over 128,000, according to 2017 U.S. Census data. It is located in King County, the most populous in the state, and is approximately 20 miles from both Seattle and Tacoma, two of the state’s three largest metropolitan areas.
Kent’s median household income of $61,033 surpassed the national average by about $3,000 for the period 2012-2016. However, more than 15% of individuals were still estimated to be living below the poverty line, per the Census Bureau’s 2016 American Community Survey. That survey also indicated that 7.3% of persons under 65 were living with a disability in Kent, and nearly 14% did not possess health insurance.
Individually or in conjunction, the above factors can contribute to numerous mental health problems, including depression, anxiety and other stress-related disorders.
Mental Health Resources in Kent
Mental Health America suggests that Washington faces a higher prevalence of mental illness than most of the country. As of November 2018, the state ranked 10th-highest in the U.S. in frequency of mental health issues, but just 22nd in access to care. Some factors in determining this statistic include:
- Adults whose psychiatric needs were not met, or who did not receive any treatment;
- Uninsured and/or disabled adults who could not afford services;
- Minors receiving inconsistent or no treatment;
- Children whose insurance did not cover mental health needs;
- Insufficient availability of mental health workers.
In response to these challenges, Governor Jay Inslee signed a March 2018 bill to help improve substance abuse and mental health care throughout the state. A primary goal is the integration of mental health care with existing physical services, which would potentially provide treatment options to more individuals and focus on the benefits of preventative care.
Washington’s supplemental budget for 2018 also earmarked more than $10 million for enhanced drug abuse services, $1 million for expanded outpatient programs and $69 million to improve general mental health treatment throughout the state. These investments do represent a positive shift, but in some regards, they merely offset an 8% dip in funding for psychiatric services that occurred the previous year, per the Seattle Times.
Kent Faces Varied Mental Health Problems
There are many reasons for King County’s varied mental health challenges. Above-average rates in poverty, poor availability of treatment services and even language barriers are just a few examples of contributing factors.
Washington state’s reported uninsured rate was two points lower than the U.S. average as of 2016, at 7% versus 9% nationwide. However, a large concentration of foreign language-speaking households might explain why many still don’t receive the care they need. Research by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality suggests that a lack of English language proficiency can impede access to all forms of health care. The study also finds negative disparities in employment, education and health insurance for this segment of the population.
Over half of those living in Kent from 2012-16 identified as minority or mixed race, including 11% African-American, 16.4% Latin or Hispanic and 18.5% Asian. Overall, more than 28% of the city’s residents were reportedly born outside of the United States, and nearly 40% primarily spoke non-English languages at home.
The Challenge of Finding a Therapist in Kent, Washington
One of the foremost obstacles in addressing mental illness is poor accessibility of services. Crosscut referenced an American Hospital Association survey in 2016 that revealed Washington state as one of the worst in terms of treatment availability. The study found that fewer than 10 psychiatric beds were available for every 100,000 persons in the state, a number that ranked above only New Mexico and Colorado.
The same article does note recent court rulings designed to mitigate this problem. In itself, however, the necessity for such hearings indicates how difficult it can be for cities to make positive gains, with respect to mental health services.
Help is Available in Kent
Overcoming any type of health challenge often begins with finding a qualified therapist. If you or someone you know is in need of assistance to overcome mental health issues, please refer to the E-Counseling therapist directory. It’s an easy way to locate professionals in your area, complete with a breakdown of each provider’s specialties, credentials and experience. Find the help you need and start on the road to recovery today.
An Overview of Mental Health in Roseville, California
Roseville, California is the most populated city in Placer County with an estimated 2016 population of 132,683, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. As part of the larger Sacramento metropolitan area, Roseville residents enjoy a variety of entertainment and shopping opportunities. For example, the city is home to the impressive Westfield Galleria shopping center, which makes the city a shopping destination for people in the region. In addition, CNN Money named Roseville as the skinniest city in the U.S. because of the lowest average body mass index of its residents. Similarly, 73 percent of Placer County residents state that the area is a healthy place to live.
While Roseville is known for many upsides, it faces some socioeconomic and mental health problems. For instance, poverty is an issue in Roseville and Placer County as a whole, especially for Latino/Hispanic and Black/African American residents. Physical activity levels are also concerning, which puts residents at risk of various physical and mental health conditions. Here is a closer look at the mental health situation in Roseville and how you can get in touch with a therapist if you or a loved one is struggling.
An Overview of Mental Health in Roseville, California
There are some troubling statistics regarding the mental health status of people in Roseville. According to the Placer County Health and Human Services Department, Roseville experiences high rates of ER visits for mental health reasons among children under 18 years old. The rate of mental health-related ER visits in Roseville is 108 per 10,000 youth, compared to the national average of 42 per 10,000.
ER visits for mental health per 10,000 youth.
There is a mental health problem among adults in the area too. According to the California Mental Health Prevalence Estimates, approximately 3.6 percent of Placer County adults suffer from a serious mental illness. A serious mental illness is any mental illness that significantly impairs an adult’s ability to partake in major life activities, such as working and socializing.
Suicide is also a big concern for Placer County. From 1991 to 2013, 811 suicides took place in Placer County. The average yearly number of suicides is 35, with 55 suicides taking place during certain years. But this isn’t just a problem in the Roseville area. The U.S. as a whole is experiencing a skyrocketing suicide rate.
These concerns exist partially due to the lack of physical activity among many Roseville area residents. From 2013-2014, 29.5 percent of East Roseville adults walked at least 150 minutes weekly. This is lower than the state rate of 33 percent. Being active reduces the symptoms of depression and anxiety, improves mood, and promotes healthy sleeping.
Poverty is another contributing factor of mental illness. In particular, Black/African American and Latino/Hispanic residents in Placer County experience significantly low income and high poverty rates. Without enough income, people have restricted access to health care, good schools, safe, neighborhoods, and healthy food. People who experience poverty have an increased risk for physical and mental health conditions.
Finally, another indicator of mental health problems is alcohol and drug abuse. Twenty percent of individuals in Placer County drink heavily, while the statewide rate is 17 percent. Deaths caused by drug overdoses increased by over 200 percent between 2009 and 2013. Drug addiction can be both a cause and a symptom of various mental illnesses.
The Trouble of Finding a Suitable Therapist in Roseville, California
Unfortunately, it can be difficult to access mental health care for Roseville residents and people across America. A majority of adults in the U.S. do not receive mental health treatment, according to Mental Health America. Another hurdle is obtaining health insurance. The U.S. Census Bureau states that 8 percent of Roseville residents do not have access to health coverage.
Mental Health Resources in Roseville, California
Thankfully, there is some good news for people seeking mental health treatment in Roseville. There are 11 psychiatrists per 100,000 residents in Placer County, which is above the statewide rate of 9 per 100,000 residents.
If you or someone you know needs a mental health provider in Roseville, E-Counseling.com provides an extensive directory of where you can receive mental health assistance.
An Overview of Mental Health in Thornton, Colorado
Thornton, Colorado is a city in Adams County, located within the Denver metropolitan area. Having been formed in the early 1950s, it is a relatively young community. In the years since, it has quickly grown to become the sixth largest city in Colorado with a population of approximately 137,000 as of 2017.
Healthcare, retail and construction are some of its largest industries, and its unemployment rate of approximately 3% is just under the national average. Its average income level is also well above the national average.
On the other hand, Thornton is not experiencing that same success in terms of mental health care. Like the rest of the state, it is struggling with getting its residents the care they need. It is important to look at this issue closely, while also examining possible reasons for it.
Mental Health Statistics in Colorado
Mental illness and suicide are major problems across the US, but Colorado ranks particularly poorly compared to other states.
- In a 2017 report from Mental Health America ranking states from best to worst in terms of the prevalence of mental health problems, Colorado came in at number 44.
- In 2016, the suicide rate in Colorado was approximately 20 per 100,000 individuals. This is much higher than the national average of approximately 13 per 100,000.
- Suicide was the seventh leading cause of death in the state overall in 2014. In the 10 to 24-year-old age group, it was the second most common cause.
Mental Illness Risk Factors in Thornton
Why are Colorado’s mental health stats so poor? Many different factors can figure into the problem. However, there are a few factors local to Thornton and nearby Denver that may help explain the crisis at a more local level.
Minorities
Thornton is home to a high percentage of minorities, particularly Hispanics, who alone constitute over 30% of the population. Let’s take a look at this specific demographic to demonstrate some of the problems they area experiencing.
- Poverty levels are highest among the black population, but the Hispanic population’s approximate 15% is still fairly high.
- Regardless of ethnicity, 16% of those without a high school degree are in poverty, but taking a closer look at the statistics on education, minorities come in disadvantaged again. While whites have a high school graduation rate of over 95%, Hispanics come in far behind at just under a 68% graduation rate.
- A 2013 health report from the city of Denver revealed that Hispanics were far less likely to seek help than the rest of the population, disproportionately citing reasons such as lack of coverage by their insurance and stigma. However, all three groups reported high concern about the cost of treatment.
Cost
Even though statistics seem to show a big problem with getting minorities the help they need, white males are statistically the most likely to commit suicide. Of course, no demographic is immune to financial troubles or stigma, but the white population is statistically less likely to be burdened by them. This leads one to believe that there are other issues at play, such as overall lack of access to insurance and treatment at an affordable level.
Although the passing of the Affordable Care Act helped get many more people covered by insurance, the percentage of people who need mental health treatment has not gone down much since then. Mental health professionals are becoming scarcer, meaning that patients often have long waiting periods to get the help they need. Many psychiatric facilities in the state have also shut down, due to the lack of profit with such high treatment costs.
Resources in Thornton
Even with these difficulties, however, there are still many resources available to you or your loved one:
- Community Reach Center in Thornton offers a wide variety of resources from crisis services to outpatient counseling to therapy groups. The center is involved in the community and even provides an education program called Mental Health First Aid.
- Mental Health Center of Denver provides many services for children and adults. It also offers support aimed especially at the Hispanic community at El Centro de las Familias.
- Aurora Mental Health Center is another facility extending behavioral health services in the area.
E-Counseling is a great resource to utilize in finding the help you need. The site’s directory is built to match you with a therapist who fits your needs and can help you reach your goals. You can take the first step toward making a change in your life today.