(Leah Hogsten | The Salt Lake Tribune) Mural dedicated to mental health awareness at 3091 South 2700 West, West Valley City, March 16, 2021.
Utah now suffers more mental health problems than any US state A recent study found that nearly 30% of adults in Utah suffer from mental health problems. Over the past two years, the epidemic has come to the fore, with many experiencing overwhelming changes in their personal, family and business lives. As a result, the need for mental health services has increased dramatically.
Children in Utah have a huge and unmet need for mental health care. Adolescents struggle with mental health due to many factors such as peer pressure, trauma and bullying. There are barriers for adults who need mental health and substance use care. Barriers such as stigma, being uninsured or underinsured, or being part of the BIPOC community can affect access to care.
In the post-COVID-19 world, we see a lot of anxiety and depression due to fear and isolation. Suicide remains one of the leading causes of death in both Utah and the United States. Suicide has become a serious public health concern, exacerbated by COVID-19.
There is help and hope for those who are suffering. There are resources available and people who understand. You and the person you love are not alone. Below is a link to his website with helpful resources and a suicide prevention line. If you or someone you know or love is struggling with suicidal thoughts, reach out.Help and healing are just a call away or a click away.
If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, call the Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-TALK.
Melisa Araujo, Salt Lake City
