Why Is This Important?
According to National Institute of Mental Health, there were
approximately 43.6 million adults in the United States with a mental illness in
2014. This is about 18.1% of US adults. (10)
The burden associated with mental and behavioral disorders is
significant—both economically and personally. It is estimated that serious
mental illness costs the U.S. $193.2 billion in lost earnings per year. (11)
Additionally, there is a link between suicide and mental disorders. Over
800,000 people die every year from suicide, and for each suicide committed
there are many more people making attempts, as well as survivors of the suicide
victim. Suicide is one of the leading causes of death, and the second leading
cause of death in 15-29 year olds. (12) In 2009, suicide was the seventh
leading cause of death in the Panhandle (1.5%). (13)
Some risk factors for suicide and mental, emotional, and
behavioral disorders include alcohol or substance use, isolation, history of
child maltreatment, poor parenting, mental health conditions, particularly
depression, and stressful and negative events. (14,15) The Adverse Childhood
Experiences study is a collaborative study between the CDC and Kaiser
Permanente that investigates the association between childhood negative
experiences and health in adulthood. (16) Findings of the study suggest that
adverse childhood experiences such as physical, emotional and sexual abuse,
witnessing violence, traumatic events, and family dysfunction have a negative
effect on the health and well-being of the individual later in life. (16)
Understanding the importance of early intervention, the focus of
the efforts in the Panhandle revolves around prevention through early
identification and treatment and prevention and mitigation of Adverse Childhood
Experiences.
Measures
Period
Trend
% Change