MAPPING THE BURDEN OF MENTAL HEALTH DISORDERS IN THE UNITED STATES: A NARRATIVE REVIEW OF PREVALENCE TRENDS AND SERVICE GAPS

Mental health crises are characterized as a critical public health problem, affecting millions globally and posing significant economic challenges. This review discusses mental health in the United States, with global insights, and explores the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. It focuses on prevalence, impact, challenges, potential solutions, and outcomes. Although high prevalence rates and links to social determinants are well-documented, the COVID-19 pandemic has intensified these challenges, leading to increased mental health issues among vulnerable groups. Additionally, even though evidence-based interventions like cognitive-behavioral therapy and collaborative care models are effective, their real-world impact is limited by issues such as underfunding, stigma, and shortages of staff in health facilities. These barriers disproportionately affect underserved populations, which underscores inequities in mental health care. A critical need for broad strategies that integrate clinical and policy to improve the scalability of mental health services was highlighted. Recent research and key gaps were explored and highlighted. This review suggests the need for new ways that focus on equity and sustainability. These are keys to individual well-being and broader public health.