Why Therapy Deserts Exist
Rural areas are known for having fewer resources in general.
Mental health care is no exception.
So, consider non-rural states.
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These states, such as California and New York, include multiple large cities.
Now, think about states with a lower population and no densely populated cities, like Wyoming or Alabama.
Fewer people also usually means people are more geographically spread out.
Additionally, they are more likely to practice in areas with higher numbers of people with advanced education.
Again, this can be attributed to the resources available in certain areas.
Mental health practitioners often work in the regions where they attended their educational programs.
Therefore, areas with significantly fewer educational programs are less likely to attract mental health practitioners.
This program allows those seeking care to engage in a screening process and connect to resources immediately.
The data gathered from this program was staggering.
The number of those using the screening to access services to treatanxietyincreased by 93% from 2019 to 2020.
If you are having suicidal thoughts, contact theNational Suicide Prevention Lifelineat988for support and assistance from a trained counselor.
If you or a loved one are in immediate danger, call 911.
For more mental health resources, see ourNational Helpline Database.
So, navigating these hurdles is a feat in and of itself.
Things may feel particularly bleak if youre situated in a therapy desert.
However, there are still ways for you to access care.
Different online therapy directories offer different services.
you’re free to also research online therapy companies.
Find out which option is the best for you.
That being said, there are times when a crisis arises and care is needed immediately.
If youre experiencing an emergency, head to the nearest hospital or dial 911.
Should you be experiencing a mental health crisis and need extra support getting connected to resources, dial 988.
The New York Times.
‘Nobody Has Openings’: Mental Health Providers Struggle to Meet Demand.
National Geographic.COVID-19 is Taking a Heavy Toll in Americas Mental Health Care Deserts.
Mental Health America.The State of Mental Health 2021.
2019;144(6):e20191576.
