Problem:
At least 20% of all Americans are diagnosed with some form of mental illness. At least 15% of all adults use some form of mental health services each year in this country. While most ambulatory care clinics focus on physical ailments, we cannot ignore that many of our patients also likely have a mental health issue, too.
Post your thoughts on why mental health may have a stigma. What are some factors that may prevent people with mental health illnesses from seeking appropriate medical care? What responsibilities do health care providers have in serving people with mental illnesses?