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Rachel Roberts, Opinion contributor Published 6:16 a.m. ET Sept. 18, 2020

The rise of COVID-19 has understandably refocused our attention on health care access and inequities.One component that hasnt gotten as much attention, but should, is access to mental health care.Were in a moment where more of us than ever before could benefit from having an established relationship with a qualified provider.

Although we have seen sustained success in the fields of mental health care, counseling and addiction services in recent decades from gains in medicine to a more aware and understanding publicthe statistics are clear that this is not enough.

Indeed, two of the main drivers behind reports showing life expectancy is declining in the United States are the rising rates of drug addiction and suicide.The public has a good understanding of the importance of addressing the former, but comparatively less attention is given to how to spot and then stop someone from taking his or her life.

Related:Inequity in mental health care is yet another challenge facing the minority community

To understand suicides sizable scope, consider that its number here in the United States is four times higher than those murdered and a third larger than those killed in traffic accidents.Suicide rates are highest among adults between 45 and 64, and those with substance abuse disorders are six times more likely to commit suicide than those without, according toMental Health America.Worldwide, there are 800,000 suicides a year, or an average of one every 40 seconds.

I learned from an early age how much of a difference it makes when someone in crisis gets the care they need.My dad worked as an addiction specialist and had his office on the ground floor of our home.There were many times that I saw him open the door for clients who were struggling to survive, and there is no telling how many lives he and his friends in the field saved.

I will never forget the example he set, and it is one of the reasons why I proudly serve as a board member for Mental Health America of Kentucky andwhy improving access to mental healthand addictionservices across Kentucky is so important to me as a state legislator.

To further that goal, I am sponsoring legislation that would make what I think is a long-overdue change.I chose toannounceit Sept.10 to coincide with World Suicide Prevention Day and Suicide Prevention Awareness Month for our country.

Kentucky Rep. Rachel Roberts, a Democrat,represents District 67.(Photo: provided)

In short, my bill calls for comprehensive health insurance plans to include anannual preventative mental health checkup.

Just as we understand the importance of monitoring blood pressure and cholesterol and regularly visiting the dentist and eye doctor,we shouldcheck on our mental health in the same way.

If we want toprioritize mental health and well-being for all Kentuckians, were going to have to do more than we have done.There may be no single answer to get us to that destination, but my bill undoubtedly would move us in the right direction.

If you or someone you know is at risk of committing suicide, please do not hesitate to act.The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is available 24 hours a day and can be reached at 800-273-8255.If it is an immediate emergency, please call 911.

Rachel Roberts, a Democrat,is a Kentucky representative forDistrict 67.

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With addiction and suicide on the rise, we must increase access to mental health care - Courier Journal

This entry was posted on September 18, 2020 at 11:56 am and is filed under Preventative Medicine. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed. |