The Idaho Counseling Association spent a day at the Capitol last week, speaking to legislators about the importance of adequate counseling services in Idaho. A recent study showed that nearly 20% of adults in the U.S. had mental illness in the year prior. The same study found that less than 4 in 10 adults with mental illness received mental health services. The American Counseling Association found that Major Depressive Disorder is the leading cause of disability for individuals ages 15-44 in the U.S. Furthermore, people with mental illnesses have one of the lowest rates of employment of any group with disabilities, even though a vast majority of those impacted have a desire to work.
In the U.S., the annual economic, indirect cost of mental illnesses is estimated to be $79 billion. Additionally, substance abuse costs the U.S. more than $484 billion per year. These statistics illustrate that untreated mental illness in America gravely impacts the quality of life for those effected as well as our economy.
This is where the hard work of counselors comes in. For every $1 spent to invest in substance abuse treatment and counseling, there is a $4-$7 return on investment in reduced drug-related crime, criminal justice costs, and theft. For young people, access to school counselors often improve academic achievement and graduation rates. Adequate and affordable counseling helps those living with mental illnesses to create a better quality of life for themselves, contribute to economic development, and live a healthy and productive lifestyle.
I want to thank the amazing counselors in Idaho who work with countless citizens every year. They empower their patients every single day and inspire me to serve others.
Source: American Counseling Association. “The Effectiveness of and Need for Professional Counseling Services.” March, 2011.