Issues in Mental Health Treatment

A variety of factors can influence the delivery and quality of mental health care. These factors can impact the treatment of a person suffering from mental illness.

Cost

• According to a survey by SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) cited in the New York Times (November 2009), one of the biggest issues affecting access to mental health care is cost. However, local university graduate programs, community and mental health clinics do offer counseling and medication services on a sliding fee basis.

Stigma

• Stigma is a bias or negative judgment against a person experiencing a mental illness. As a result, people with mental health disorders often develop shame, guilt and low self-esteem.

Parity

• The Mental Health and Addiction Equity Act mandates group health plans provide equitable coverage of mental health and substance abuse benefits comparable with those of physical illnesses. The law, which goes into effect January 2010, will only apply to employers with 50 or more employees.

Cultural Competence

• Cultural competence is an important part of quality mental health treatment. Mental health providers must be able to communicate a client's unique needs based on knowledge, study and sensitivity to a client's diverse culture.

Non-Compliance

• Noncompliance in mental health treatment can interfere with a person's ability to maintain stability. Reasons for non-compliance result from: stoppage of psychotrophic medication due to side effects, poor insight into illness, lack of social/familial supports and homelessness.