10 Must-Read Behavioral and Mental Health Articles From September 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 September. Highlights include stories on the U.S. suicide crisis, a new 988 service, a SAMHSA report, telehealth and digestive diseases.

1. Study Shows Continuing Suicide Crisis in the U.S.

A survey of Americans 18 years and older found that nearly 1 in 5 say they were plagued with suicidal thoughts in the past year.

2.  Few Doctors, Spotty Internet: Finding Mental Health Care Tough for Many Americans

A study revealed that nearly 1 in 5 U.S. counties lack psychiatrists or internet service, making it difficult for around 10.5 million Americans to find mental health care.

3.  988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline Adds American Sign Language Services for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Callers

The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline was made available to those who use American Sign Language through the use of a videophone.

4. SAMHSA Releases New Data on Recovery from Substance Use and Mental Health Problems Among Adults in the United States

A new SAMHSA report shared data on adults in recovery from a substance use and/or mental health problem and provides policy recommendations identified as supporting recovery.

5. Behavioral Health Patients Lack Choice on Telehealth vs. In-Person Care, Study Finds

A study found many behavioral health patients want the choice to pursue telehealth or in-person visits but did not have the option with their clinicians.

Follow Proem Behavioral Health on LinkedIn to help you stay current with the latest behavioral and mental health news.

6. ADHD Linked To Higher Risk of Developing Mental Disorders and Attempted Suicide, Study Finds

A study found that attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is associated with a higher incidence of depression, anorexia or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as well as the risk of suicide attempts.

7. Army Expands Mental Health Support by Implementing the Brandon Act

The U.S. Army approved a policy empowering soldiers to confidentially seek help and request a mental health evaluation through a commander or supervisor.

8. Digestive Diseases Can Take Toll on Seniors' Mental Health

A study found that older adults with digestive diseases have an elevated likelihood of depression.

9. New Mexico Official Orders Insurance Companies To Expand Timely Access To Behavioral Health Services

Following New Mexico's governor declaring a public health emergency over gun violence, the state's top insurance regulator ordered health insurance companies to expand timely access to behavioral health services.

10. Mental Health Support Is Key To Cutting Student Absence, Says Report

A report argues for increasing support for young people's mental health as a key to reducing student absence rates.