A recent study conducted by Soliant Health, a healthcare staffing and research company based in Atlanta, Georgia, has analyzed mental health across America and shed light on the best and worst U.S. states to live in for mental health.
This comprehensive report takes into account various factors that significantly influence the mental health of residents across all 50 states.
These factors include the frequency of “bad mental health days,” accessibility to mental health providers, suicide rates among 15 to 24-year-olds, unemployment rates, violent crime rates, the number of disconnected youth, availability of exercise opportunities, and air quality.
Report On Mental Health Across America
According to the report, here are the top 10 best states for mental health:
- Nebraska
- Connecticut
- Massachusetts
- Minnesota
- Rhode Island
- New Jersey
- Vermont
- Colorado
- North Dakota
- Utah
Nebraska secured the top spot with the lowest percentage of teenagers and young adults (4.28%) who are unemployed or not in school. The state earned a remarkable score of 85.2 out of 100 in weighted mental health points.
Connecticut and Massachusetts came in close behind with scores of 85 and 81.8 points, respectively. On the other end of the spectrum, West Virginia was ranked as the worst state in the U.S. for mental health, followed by Alabama and Arkansas.
West Virginia had the highest average number of mentally unhealthy days in the last 30 days. Alabama struggled with the worst mental health provider-to-population ratio and ranked second-to-last for the highest number of mentally unhealthy days.
Arkansas also faced challenges in various categories, including exercise opportunities, disconnected youth rates, air quality, and the prevalence of mentally unhealthy days.
The report also acknowledged noteworthy findings in other states. For example, California ranked highest for providing the most access to exercise opportunities but simultaneously ranked lowest for air quality. Dr. Gary Small, the psychiatry chair of Hackensack University Medical Center in New Jersey, responded to his state’s achievement in clinching a top spot on the list.
This extensive report underscores the significance of location in shaping mental health outcomes. It not only provides valuable insights into the states that prioritize mental well-being but also highlights areas that need improvements in mental health support and services.
Mental health, a crucial aspect of overall well-being, is influenced by a combination of social, economic, and environmental factors. The report’s findings offer guidance for individuals and policymakers to create environments that promote better mental health for all.
In a time when mental health awareness and support are more critical than ever, studies like this one serve as valuable tools for evaluating the current state of mental health across the nation and working towards improvements.
The study from Soliant Health reaffirms the importance of addressing mental health on a national scale and implementing strategies to enhance the mental well-being of communities across the United States.
By examining factors such as unemployment rates, the availability of mental health services, and the prevalence of “bad mental health days,” this report provides a comprehensive view of the mental health landscape in the United States.
While some states excel in prioritizing mental health, others face challenges that demand attention and intervention. The findings aim to empower individuals, communities, and policymakers to work towards a healthier and more supportive mental health environment.
In summary, the Soliant Health report on the best and worst states for mental health highlights the critical role that location plays in shaping mental well-being.
It underscores the need for increased awareness and improved mental health services across the nation, as well as the importance of addressing disparities and challenges in providing mental health support to all residents.