Research Reveals Hidden Cost Of Mental Illness During Mental Health Awareness Month
May 17 2024 - 11:47AM
In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, Allsup, the
nation’s premier provider of Social Security Disability Insurance
(SSDI) representation services, highlights the immense economic
costs of mental illness in the U.S. based on recent research
findings. A Yale University paper released in April underscores the
urgency and necessity of accessible and comprehensive mental health
services to mitigate these costs and support societal and
individual well-being. This report echoes similar findings from
National Alliance on Mental Illness estimating annual costs of over
$225 billion for mental health treatment.
The Yale study reveals that mental illness in the U.S. has a
substantial economic impact, totaling $282 billion annually. This
figure includes costs related to healthcare, lost productivity, and
social services. This data highlights the critical need for
enhanced mental health services, supports ongoing efforts at Allsup
to facilitate access to financial support through its Disability
Financial Solutions®, particularly for those navigating the
complexities of Social Security Disability Insurance application
for benefits. This assistance from Allsup, in the areas of
healthcare insurance, debt relief, household expenses and more,
often represents a vital initial step toward financial and medical
stability.
“Understanding the economic impact of mental illness helps us
advocate more effectively for comprehensive mental health services,
which are crucial for those seeking SSDI assistance,” said T.J.
Geist, Principal Advocate at Allsup. “During Mental Health
Awareness Month and beyond, we encourage increased discussion on
mental health and urge individuals to utilize the myriad of
resources available to them.”
Another recommendation from the study is the need to broaden the
scope of covered mental health services, including preventive
measures, to proactively address and prevent the escalation of
mental health issues. The findings also advocate for stringent
standards and robust oversight of mental health service providers
to ensure high-quality care, promote accountability, and protect
individual well-being.
This Mental Health Awareness Month, Allsup stands with those
affected by mental illness and continues to support advancements in
healthcare policy and service delivery that improve mental health
outcomes. As part of our continued commitment to mental health
wellness and support, Allsup assists those applying for Social
Security disability benefits and recognizes the importance of
connecting individuals with the resources they need to thrive.
Several resources are available to offer support and assistance
for individuals facing mental health challenges.
- The National
Alliance on Mental Illness provides educational programs and
advocacy through its helpline.
- The Substance
Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration offers a 24/7
helpline for treatment referrals. MentalHealth.gov provides
valuable information on mental health issues and treatments.
- For immediate
text-based support, individuals can connect with a crisis counselor
by texting HOME to 741741 through the Crisis Text Line.
These resources can be a lifeline to accessing help and finding
pathways to better mental health. Community support can be a
game-changer for mental health improvements, as it provides a
network of understanding, encouragement, and resources that can
significantly alleviate feelings of isolation and promote recovery
and well-being.
June 4-6, 2024: Coming soon, NAMI’s annual convention –
NAMICon 2024 – is an important gathering focused on mental health
advocacy, sharing best practices, and advancing policy changes to
improve mental health care systems across the country. The
convention serves as a critical platform for bringing together
mental health advocates, professionals, and the public to discuss
and influence the future of mental health care.
For more information about applying for SSDI benefits, filing
your appeal if you were denied, or to see if you are eligible,
visit FileSSDI.Allsup.com or call 1-800-678-3276. Be sure to ask
about our Disability Financial Solutions for SSDI customers. Allsup
helps more claimants get approved at the applicant level than any
other representative nationwide.
ABOUT ALLSUPAllsup and its subsidiaries provide
nationwide Social Security disability, veterans disability appeal,
disability financial solutions, return to work, and healthcare
benefits services for individuals, their employers and insurance
carriers. Allsup professionals deliver specialized services
supporting people with disabilities and seniors so they may lead
lives that are as financially secure and as healthy as possible.
Founded in 1984, the company is based in Belleville, Illinois, near
St. Louis. Learn more at Allsup.com and @Allsup or download a free
PDF of Applying for Social Security Disability Insurance: Getting
It Right The First Time.
- T.J. Geist, Principal Advocate at Allsup
Laura C. Sala
Allsup
(618) 409-7079
L.Sala@allsup.com
Rebecca Ray
Allsup
(618) 236-5065
R.Ray@allsup.com