Many adults with anxiety or depression do not receive treatment, and certain groups more so than others, according to a new Kaiser Family Foundation analysis.
The analysis relied on 2019 data from the National Health Interview Survey.
Nearly a quarter of adults reported symptoms of anxiety and or depression that year, most of which were mild. Nearly 40% had not received treatment in the past year, with almost a quarter attributing that to cost. Other barriers revealed in past data include not knowing where to obtain care, provider shortages and low insurance acceptance. Among those with severe symptoms, nearly one-third hadn’t received treatment.
Mental health treatment was lowest among Black adults. Also, a significantly greater share of young adults had not received mental healthcare in the past year compared to older adults. More women than men reported having moderate to severe symptoms, yet fewer men received treatment. Additionally, a disproportionate share of adults that reported symptoms were enrolled in Medicaid.
Discrimination and structural inequities, including lack of insurance coverage, costs and social determinants, could all have played a role. These disparities may have been exacerbated by the pandemic, KFF noted.
Fewer insured adults without a usual source of care received treatment than those with one, which can improve but does not guarantee treatment, KFF noted. Irregular or no mental health screening, costs and coverage limitations may contribute to lack of treatment for either group.
The report acknowledged the important role telehealth has played in delivering mental healthcare during the pandemic. It also noted the easing of restrictions around the use of telehealth, federal funds meant for the workforce and the national suicide hotline number set to launch this summer. However, it is unclear how recent federal policy proposals would impact access to care.