Florida Statistics on Therapy and Treatment
Amidst the landscape of mental health across the United States, Florida struggles with challenges reflective of broader national trends. Recent analyses shed light on the prevalence of anxiety and depressive disorders among adults in the Sunshine State, aligning closely with national averages.
From February 1 to 13, 2023, 32.3% of adults in the state of Florida reported symptoms of anxiety and/or depressive disorder, mirroring the national average of 32.3% among adults in the U.S., according to a U.S. Census Bureau analysis. Despite this prevalence, the percentage of need for mental health professionals met in Florida stands at 21.0%, lower than the national percentage of needs met at 27.7%. This suggests a significant gap between the demand for mental health treatment and the available resources to address it within the state.
In May 2022, among adults in Florida experiencing symptoms of anxiety and/or depressive disorder, 23.6% reported needing counseling or therapy but did not receive it in the past four weeks, compared to the U.S. average of 28.2%. This data underscores the challenges individuals face in accessing mental health care in Florida, reflecting disparities in service availability and utilization. Additionally, analysis of average out-of-pocket spending for adults with mental illness enrolled in large employer health plans reveals higher expenditure compared to those without mental illness, both in Florida and nationally. This disparity highlights financial barriers that may hinder individuals from seeking necessary mental health treatment.
Nationwide, suicide remains a pressing public health concern, with over half a million lives lost to suicide since 2010, according to the KFF Mental Health & Substance Use Disorder Florida State Data report. Despite slight fluctuations, the number of suicide deaths in the U.S. has remained alarmingly high, particularly among certain demographics such as people of color, younger individuals, and those residing in rural areas. In Florida, as depicted in 2021 data, the suicide death rate by firearm surpassed that by other means, reflecting a concerning trend mirrored at the national level.
These statistics underscore the need for comprehensive mental health support and suicide prevention efforts to address the underlying factors contributing to such tragic outcomes. If you or someone you know is in need of mental health treatment, contact The Sylvia Brafman Mental Health Center at (877) 958-9212 for compassionate, holistic care.