10 Must-Read Behavioral and Mental Health Articles From June 2023

To keep you better informed about some of the biggest news and developments concerning behavioral and mental health, below are 10 of the most significant reports published in June. Highlights include stories on anxiety screening for adults, pediatric mental health, and substance use disorder treatment.

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1. All Adults Under 65 Should Be Screened for Anxiety, Health Panel Says

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommended routine screening for anxiety and depression in young and middle-aged adults.

2. Nearly 1 in 5 US Adults Have Been Diagnosed With Depression and the Prevalence Varies Dramatically by State, CDC Report Finds

The CDC found that in 2020, more than 18% of US adults reported having ever been diagnosed with depression in their lifetimes — but, state by state, that percentage of adults ranged from an estimated 12.7% in Hawaii to 27.5% in West Virginia.

3. About 15% Of US Children Recently Received Mental Health Treatment, New CDC Data Shows

Research from CDC showed nearly 15% of children in the United States were treated for mental health disorders in 2021.

4. SAMHSA Releases New Data on Lesbian, Gay and Bisexual Behavioral Health

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) released a data report indicating that lesbian, gay and bisexual adults are more likely than straight adults to use substances, experience mental health conditions including major depressive episodes and experience serious thoughts of suicide.

5. Insured Adults Still Struggle to Access Mental Health Services, Survey Shows

A survey of more than 3,600 adults revealed that large percentages of insured adults say their mental health is only "fair" or "poor" and report problems finding therapists or available mental health services.

6. Patients With Mental Illness Utilized Social Media for Health Reasons

A study revealed that patients with mental disorders are more likely to use social media platforms for health-related reasons compared to the general population.

7. American Hospital Association Lobbies Congress to Address 'Discriminatory' and 'Outdated' Behavioral Health Regulations

In a letter to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce, AHA requested lawmakers address several systemic behavioral health issues, including psychiatric and behavioral health care payment, administrative burdens, regulatory red tape and workforce development.  

8. Children With Anxiety Are Prescribed Medications but Little Therapy

A study showed that when children and teenagers receive help for an anxiety disorder, it's usually medication, not counseling.

9. Substance Use Disorders: New Research by the Ad Council Research Institute Outlines How Best to Reach, Encourage and Support those Open to Treatment

The Ad Council Research Institute shared findings of a study identifying how to reach, encourage and support individuals open to treatment for substance use disorders (SUDs).

10. Study: 63% Of Children Do Not Receive Mental Health Services Within Six Months After Firearm Injury

A study showed that more than three in five children enrolled in Medicaid do not receive mental health services within six months after a firearm injury.

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