Mental Health Awareness Month

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and Highmark Blue Shield of Northeastern New York wants to use this time to remind you to regularly screen your patients for mental health disorders.

A 2020 report from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) contains some concerning statistics on mental health diagnoses and a lack of treatment.

According to the report:

  • 40.3 million individuals ages 12 or older have a Substance Use Disorder (SUD) but only 1.4% received treatment
  • 52.9 million adults ages 18 or older have Any Mental Illness (AMI) but only 46.2% received treatment
  • 14.2 million adults ages 18 or older have been diagnosed with Serious Mental Illness but only 64.5% received treatment
  • 17 million adults ages 18 or older have been diagnosed with Co-Occurring AMI and SUD but only 50.5% received treatment
  • 4.1 million adolescents ages 12 to 17 have been diagnosed with Major Depressive Episode but only 41.6% received treatment
  • 21 million adults ages 18 or older have been diagnosed with Major Depressive Episode but only 66% received treatment

Follow-up care is especially important for those who have been seen in an emergency department for mental illness and/or substance use. It’s essential to make sure that they are receiving appropriate care following that ED visit.

Now is a good time to review the Highmark Provider Manual sections on Behavioral Health:


Disclaimer: Highmark Blue Shield of Northeastern New York does not recommend particular treatments or health care services. This information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. You should determine the appropriate treatment and follow-up with your patient. Coverage of services is subject to the terms of each member’s benefit plan. Additionally, state laws and regulations governing health insurance, health plans and coverage may apply and will vary from state to state.

 

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