Dive Brief:
- A New York City white paper concluded that at least one in five adults in the city suffer psychological disorders that include depression, substance abuse, and suicidal thoughts.
- The report was released last week in advance of a new mental health initiative, called NYC Thrive, expected to be unveiled by the city's Department of Health and Mental Hygiene by the end of the year.
- The program will work to prevent and treat psychological disorders among city residents, but the details remain largely under wraps.
Dive Insight:
The report provides a sobering snapshot of the city's mental health concerns, and hints at NYC's upcoming efforts toward mental health awareness and action.
Among its findings:
- About 8% of NYC adults experience symptoms of depression each year;
- About 8% of NYC high school students say they've attempted suicide; and
- Poor and minority residents experience disproportionate levels of mental illnesses and are less likely to be diagnosed and treated.
The report notes while disorders such as depression have remained at steady levels in recent years, drug and alcohol abuse have been on the rise, including particular opioid overdoses and synthetic marijuana issues.