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Prioritizing Mental Health Well-being

Fostering a better informed society

By Todd Archbold, LSW, MBA

In recent months, public discourse surrounding mental health has been increasingly influenced by misinformation and sensationalism. As mental health professionals, we must navigate this complex environment, where misinformation can exacerbate existing challenges and hinder access to care. Claims that misrepresent the science behind mental health treatment in particular can pose a significant threat to individuals struggling with mental health issues.

Mental illness is real, common and treatable. These three tenets are essential in fostering a better understanding of mental health issues and the importance of seeking help. First, mental illness is real; it affects millions of individuals across diverse demographics and can be identified through comprehensive evaluations and even biological or neurochemical markers. For example, research has shown that conditions like depression and anxiety can be associated with alterations in neurotransmitter levels, such as serotonin and dopamine. Neuroimaging studies have also identified structural and functional brain changes in individuals with mental disorders, providing further evidence of their biological basis. Recognizing mental illness as a legitimate health concern is crucial for reducing stigma and encouraging individuals to seek the support they need.

Second, mental illness is common; according to the National Institute of Mental Health, nearly one in five adults in the U.S. experiences mental illness in a given year. This prevalence underscores the need for widespread awareness and accessible resources to support those affected. Finally, mental illness is treatable; evidence-based therapies, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and medication, have been shown to be effective in managing symptoms and improving quality of life. Studies indicate that CBT can lead to significant reductions in symptoms for various mental health conditions, with research suggesting that up to 70% of individuals with anxiety and depression benefit from this form of therapy.

Misinformation can worsen health disparities and hinder effective disease prevention.

The rise of misinformation in health care, particularly regarding mental health, has reached alarming levels, exacerbated by the rapid dissemination of information through digital platforms and social media. This environment not only fosters confusion but also undermines public trust in legitimate health information, leading to harmful consequences for individuals seeking help. Vulnerable populations are disproportionately affected, as misinformation can worsen health disparities and hinder effective disease prevention efforts. Addressing these challenges requires a coordinated approach that emphasizes health literacy, promotes evidence-based communication and establishes clear standards for verifying credible sources. Health literacy, particularly in mental health, involves understanding the nature of mental illnesses, recognizing the signs and symptoms and knowing how to access appropriate care.

The concept of health care literacy is relatively new and its definition is evolving. For instance, we now identify personal health literacy as differentiated from organizational health literacy. Focusing on personal health care literacy, the term reflects the ability to use health information to make well-informed decisions. This concept builds on the capacity to obtain, process and understand basic information pertaining to making specific health care decisions. This involves reading and comprehension skills, as well as understanding charts, graphs and related data that can inform making choices around risks, benefits and taking action. From a public health or organizational health literacy perspective it is critical that such information is accurately and reliably presented.

Looking at this idea more specifically, we can address mental health literacy, which requires an understanding of the role of antidepressants, those that are scientifically proven treatments for many individuals suffering from depression, anxiety and other mood disorders. Antidepressants work by altering the brain’s chemistry to help improve mood and emotional regulation. While some individuals may experience withdrawal symptoms when discontinuing antidepressants, this is not synonymous with addiction.

The process of discontinuing antidepressants is typically guided by health care providers, who monitor patients and establish benchmarks for when it is appropriate to taper off medication. Addiction is characterized by compulsive drug-seeking behavior and a loss of control over use, which is not the case for most individuals taking antidepressants as prescribed. In fact, these medications are greatly improving their lives and often the lives of those around them.

The American Psychiatric Association (APA) emphasizes the importance of understanding the nature of antidepressants and the misconceptions surrounding them. It highlights that the symptoms some people experience when changing dosage or discontinuing use merely reflect the brain’s adjustment, and are not indicative of an addiction. The APA also notes that the benefits of antidepressants in treating severe mental health conditions far outweigh the risks when used appropriately under a healthcare provider’s guidance.

Moreover, the effectiveness of mental health treatments extends beyond medication. Research has consistently shown that psychotherapy, particularly evidence-based approaches like CBT, can lead to significant improvements in mental health outcomes. A meta-analysis published in Psychological Bulletin found that CBT is effective for a wide range of disorders, including depression, anxiety, and PTSD, with many individuals experiencing lasting benefits even after treatment has concluded. Additionally, integrating lifestyle modifications, such as exercise and mindfulness practices, has been shown to enhance treatment efficacy and overall well-being. These findings reinforce the notion that mental health treatment is not only effective but also essential for fostering resilience and recovery.

Dr. Mark Olfson, M.D., M.P.H., a psychiatrist and professor of epidemiology at Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, stated, “For an adult with depression, a one-year delay in treatment is significant. For a young adolescent with depression, however, that same time period presents far greater developmental risks.” This statement underscores the urgency of timely intervention, especially for younger populations who are particularly vulnerable to the consequences of untreated mental health conditions.

Barriers in Accessing Care & the Impact of Misinformation

Accessing mental health treatment is often hindered by three primary barriers that can significantly impact individuals seeking help. The first category, which we can refer to as “structural barriers,” encompasses tangible obstacles such as lack of insurance, insufficient transportation options and limited access to reliable internet services. These barriers are closely linked to the social determinants of health, which highlight how socioeconomic factors, including income, education and community resources, can influence an individual’s ability to obtain necessary care. The second barrier is the pervasive stigma surrounding mental health issues, which can instill a fear of discrimination and judgment. Many individuals may worry about being labeled as “weak” or “unstable,” leading them to avoid seeking help even when they are in desperate need of support. The third barrier is perhaps the most insidious: a lack of awareness that one is suffering from a diagnosable mental illness. For instance, someone experiencing chronic depression may find that their feelings and ambitions are muted, leading them to believe that their struggles are simply a part of life rather than a treatable condition. Similarly, individuals with high anxiety may unconsciously avoid social situations, not realizing that their behavior is a symptom of their mental health challenges. In both cases, these individuals are suffering but may not recognize the need for help, which prevents them from seeking the treatment that could significantly improve their quality of life.

The troubling trend of mental health misinformation threatens public health.

Misinformation regarding mental health creates an additional barrier and can have dire consequences, including increased stigma, fear and reluctance to seek help, leading to increased suffering and potentially tragic outcomes. In addition, barriers to mental health care are particularly pronounced for children and adolescents. Dr. Olfson pointed out that there are already numerous obstacles limiting access to child and adolescent mental health care, including stigma, cost and regional mental health workforce shortages. Increasing public fear and uncertainty with misinformation creates yet another obstacle between children and the care they need.

The Role of Evidence-Based Care

APA’s Council on Children, Adolescents, and Their Families stated, “A public health strategy grounded in prevention, early intervention, structural equity, and evidence-based care offers the best path forward.” This holistic approach is essential for addressing the multifaceted nature of mental health challenges faced by young people today.

In the face of misinformation, it is essential to advocate for evidence-based mental health care and balanced studies that further advance the field. This approach relies on scientific research and clinical expertise to guide treatment decisions. Evidence-based care encompasses a range of interventions, including psychotherapy, medication and lifestyle changes, tailored to meet the individual needs of patients.

The APA states, “evidence-based practice is the integration of the best available research with clinical expertise in the context of patient characteristics, culture, and preferences.”

Addressing Structural Forces

Structural forces play a significant role in mental health outcomes, particularly for marginalized populations. Issues such as poverty, housing instability, racism and immigration stressors contribute to the mental health crisis among young people. Research has shown that marginalized youth are facing a particularly severe mental health crisis, with rates of suicide among Black youth rising faster than for any other group over the past two decades. The spread of mental health misinformation within these populations must therefore be swiftly addressed to prevent further harm.

Dr. Lisa Fortuna, M.D., M.P.H., chair of APA’s Council on Children, Adolescents, and Their Families, addressed misinformation about the overprescribing of psychiatric medications, acknowledging that this could be an issue among some patient populations; however, a lack of appropriate prescribing is also a concern for populations whose access to care is often limited, such as youth living in rural areas or minority groups. This is why organizations such as the APA and the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP) promote comprehensive models to address health among youth.

To help with this, PrairieCare supports a statewide Psychiatric Assistance Line (PAL) that allows any medical provider direct access to a board-certified psychiatrist to assist in evidence-based medication management. In addition to direct consultation, PAL also provides ongoing education to the primary care community to ensure best practices in psychiatric care. This initiative is a crucial step toward ensuring that all children have access to the care they need.

Collaboration and Improved Communication

Addressing misinformation in mental health requires a collaborative effort among various stakeholders, including health care providers, policymakers, educators and the media. By working together, we can create a comprehensive approach to mental health that prioritizes evidence-based care and promotes accurate information.

Policymakers have a crucial role to play in supporting mental health initiatives and funding research that advances our understanding of mental health conditions and treatments. Additionally, educators can incorporate mental health education into school curricula, helping to foster a culture of understanding and support from an early age.

The media also bear responsibility for reporting accurately on mental health issues. Sensationalized headlines and misleading statements can perpetuate stigma and misinformation. Through the explosion of social media, there are many sources for every kind of information that willfully thrive on propagating misinformation, and there are no regulations to prevent this. The media should be accountable for providing balanced coverage that highlights the importance of evidence-based care and accurately details the experiences of individuals living with mental health conditions.

Part of the problem lies in the scientific community’s struggle to communicate clearly. We’ve built a strong, globally respected scientific infrastructure that is not easily translatable into usable information that the general public can understand. This disconnect can lead to confusion and mistrust among the public regarding mental health treatments.

A goal with scientific research is publication in high-impact-factor journals, which can create an insular environment where scientists are talking to themselves in circles. This elitist perception can alienate the very individuals who need to understand the benefits and risks of mental health treatments.

Ultimately, the troubling trend of mental health misinformation threatens public health, and it is therefore imperative that we challenge these misconceptions and advocate for balanced assessment and evidence-based approaches to mental health care. Learning to provide health care in an era of misinformation will require new partnerships and greater collaboration with a wider net of stakeholders. Specific to behavioral health, this includes community-based resources and better-informed solutions.

As we face these current challenges, it is essential to recognize that everyone, regardless of political orientation, has been touched in a very personal way by the difficult issues that behavioral health poses. By keeping in sight that proper medical care can and does present a wide range of viable solutions to these issues, we can foster a more informed and compassionate society that prioritizes mental well-being.

Todd Archbold, LSW, MBA, PhD, DNP, RN, DC is the CEO at PrairieCare. A leader in providing premier full-continuum psychiatric services for people in Minnesota.