According to a national study released on Wednesday, significant progress is being made in the battle against mental illness across the country, highlighting the impact of access to services and support in the recovery journey.
The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) reports that one in 20 adults in the United States experiences serious mental illness each year, with 62,000 Nebraskans affected by these conditions. However, a comprehensive report titled “Recovery from Substance Abuse and Mental Health Problems in Adults,” released by the U.S. government’s Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), offers insights into the success of communities equipped with the necessary tools to combat mental illness.
SAMHSA’s director of the Office of Recovery, Paolo del Vecchio, emphasized the importance of factors such as access to care, a supportive network of family and friends, access to treatment, and spirituality in helping individuals overcome these challenges and achieve recovery. He noted that the recovery journey requires courage and that access to these essential components can contribute significantly to people’s ability to overcome mental health issues and lead fulfilling lives within their communities.
The SAMHSA report offers encouraging statistics, indicating that over 70% of Americans with substance use or mental health problems eventually recover. This equates to over 50 million Americans who have found hope and healing through treatment and support, underscoring the possibility of living full and happy lives in their communities.
In an era when the stigma surrounding mental health is gradually diminishing, the report offers a more optimistic perspective on recovery, dispelling myths that suggest these conditions cannot be overcome. Del Vecchio highlighted the significant shift in understanding and awareness, thanks in part to young adults who have been vocal advocates in promoting mental health resources. He also mentioned the importance of the 988 National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, which operates 24/7 and is easily accessible with just three digits.
While NAMI has reported that over one million Nebraskans live in communities lacking sufficient mental health professionals, del Vecchio stressed that the SAMHSA report underscores the availability of numerous successful pathways to mental health recovery. He emphasized the need to shift the mindset to one that recognizes that recovery is possible and to continue building strong social and family support networks, faith communities, and ensure access to quality and affordable health and behavioral health services.
