Analyze The Factors That Influence Public Opinion On Mental Health

Words: 590
Pages: 3

Introduction
Current data indicates that 1 in 5 adults have a mental health condition (Mental Health America), and youth mental health continues to worsen from 5.9% in 2012 to 18.2% in 2015 (Mental Health America). While there is an increased availability of mental health services as a result of the Affordable Care Act, there is not a proportional use amongst the services provided and their public usage. As Americans continue to face economic burdens like student loan debt, housing affordability, and unemployment. These financial hurdles can consequently lead to drug use and dependency or criminal activity which contributes to our current growing prison population. American politicians revisit the issue of mental health once another mass shooting
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In a conference in Japan, President Trump regarded the Sutherland Springs shooting as “mental health being the problem here”. While mental health access garners bipartisan support, it is worth exploring why Americans do not use mental health services as they would use any other social service program. In an effort to create an efficient use of mental health services, this paper seeks to examine the factors that influence public opinion on mental health access to increase usage of these programs. The following literature review is rooted in individuals public opinion surrounding mental health. These series of scholars reveal that media’s projection of mentally ill individuals leads to a decreased use of services. The misconception of taxpayers out of pocket cost also influences their perception of mental health if it is not identified to help alleviate social ills down the road. Another financial factor shaping public attitudes of mental health services is the individual costs associated with utilizing these services. Since health care is not universally covered in America, individuals struggle to have their physical pain seen by doctors. As a result of not having medical access, individuals who may experience a mental health problem will be