CHSU Discovery

Background:

The economic recession resulting from COVID-19 negatively impacted many Americans’ mental health and created new barriers for people with pre-existing mental health and substance use disorders.

A study revealed that in response to COVID-19, many respondents endorsed an adverse mental or behavioral health condition, started or increased substance use to cope with stress or emotions, and considered suicide in the preceding 30 days.

Globally, emergency department (ED) visits decreased across all complaints, including psychiatric.

Consequently, many patients with newly developed mental health disorders did not receive timely treatment, while those with preexisting mental health disorders experienced a worsening of symptoms and increased susceptibility to other health conditions, including COVID-19 infection.

Lower household incomes are associated with higher rates of mental health disorders and suicide attempts.

California’s Central Valley ranks among the highest in mental illness and poverty rates in the state.