- Each year, millions of Americans face the reality of living with a mental health condition. However, mental illness affects everyone directly or indirectly through family, friends or coworkers. Despite mental illnesses’ reach and prevalence, stigma and misunderstanding are also, unfortunately, widespread.
- People with depression have a 40% higher risk of developing cardiovascular and metabolic diseases than the general population. People with serious mental illness are nearly twice as likely to develop these conditions.
- 19.1% of U.S. adults experienced mental illness in 2018 (47.6 million people). This represents 1 in 5 adults.
- 19.3% of U.S. adults with mental illness also experienced a substance use disorder in 2018 (9.2 million individuals)
- The rate of unemployment is higher among U.S. adults who have mental illness (5.8%) compared to those who do not (3.6%)
- The average delay between onset of mental illness symptoms and treatment is 11 years
During the first week of October each year, the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) works to raise awareness and draw attention to resources and assistance. This year’s theme is “What People with Mental Illness Want You to Know.” Throughout the week, organizers will be raising the voices of those with lived experience to talk about some of the conditions and symptoms that are most misunderstood.
Mental Health: By the Numbers
It’s important to measure how common mental illness is, so we can understand its physical, social and financial impact — and so we can show that no one is alone. The numbers are powerful tools for raising public awareness, stigma-busting and advocating for better care.
- 97,000 adults in North Dakota have a mental health condition; that is more than 2 times the population of Minot
- 113,00 adults in South Dakota have a mental health condition; that is more than 8 times the population of Pierre
Access the NAMI site for infographics highlighting the impact of mental illness – by the numbers.
North Dakota Fact Sheet
South Dakota Fact Sheet
Sanford Health and the University of North Dakota recently teamed up to provide the Behavioral Health Bridge. This series of online modules focuses on common behavioral health conditions related to COVID-19 and promotes behavioral health treatment.
TeleECHO Series: Depression in Older Adults – October 2020
Mental health will be the conversation during our October TeleEcho sessions. We will further the discussion on how mental health and depression relates to the 4Ms framework and how to incorporate tools and best practices. Be sure to register and attend.
Tuesday, October 13, 2020
12:00 p.m. CT
University of North Dakota TeleEcho Session
Register Today
October 20, 2020
12:00 p.m. CT
Great Plains Quality Innovation Network TeleECHO Huddle
Register Today