Health professionals have noted a concerning increase in the need for mental health services in recent years, shedding light on the growing prevalence of mental health issues, including depression and anxiety disorders.
Theresa Ivey, a licensed clinical social worker at the Southwest Louisiana Center of Health Services, emphasized the concerning trend of individuals experiencing mental disorders. This trend encompasses a wide age range, from children as young as three to the geriatric population.
Shocking statistics reveal that about one in six adults and one in five children will encounter a mental disorder. In an even more distressing development, over the past three years, the United States has witnessed over 7,600 adolescent suicides and more than 150,000 suicide attempts.
Ivey explained that if mental illness remains untreated during adolescence, it can persist into adulthood and evolve into more severe and persistent mental illnesses such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.
Numerous contributing factors have been identified, including the impact of social media, the repercussions of the COVID-19 pandemic, hurricanes, and economic challenges. Furthermore, a shortage of trained counselors compounds the issue.
Ivey underscored the importance of parents paying attention to subtle signs that may indicate a problem and urged them not to hesitate in seeking help, especially for adults.
“There is not a specific set of symptoms, it’s not black and white, it’s not cut and dry,” Ivey noted. “Anything unusual should be considered a red flag for that person.”
Above all, Ivey emphasized that there is no shame in reaching out for help when it is needed, and she encouraged individuals to seek assistance and support when facing mental health challenges.
For individuals seeking more information about the SWLA Center for Health Services, they can contact 337-439-9983. The recent discovery of a deceased individual in a car outside Lake Charles City Court, with suicide suspected, highlights the pressing need for mental health awareness and accessible services in the community.
