The United States is facing a mental health crisis. An estimated one in five U.S. adults or almost 58 million Americans live with a mental illness. Poor mental health affects an individual’s ability to live a fulfilling life and has implications
for institutions and communities. Despite the growing need, the current mental health system lacks the capacity to effectively care for this population. Lack of capacity, knowledge, and skills disproportionality impacts historically marginalized populations
who experience health care disparities and health disparities. There is a need to identify and understand the root causes of mental health inequities that can inform public health strategies. This presentation will explore mental health as a public
health problem in the context of equity and justice.
The United States is facing a mental health crisis. An estimated one in five U.S. adults or almost 58 million Americans live with a mental illness. Poor mental health affects an individual’s ability to live a fulfilling life and has implications
for institutions and communities. Despite the growing need, the current mental health system lacks the capacity to effectively care for this population. Lack of capacity, knowledge, and skills disproportionality impacts historically marginalized populations
who experience health care disparities and health disparities. There is a need to identify and understand the root causes of mental health inequities that can inform public health strategies. This presentation will explore mental health as a public
health problem in the context of equity and justice.