The number of people looking for help with anxiety and depression has skyrocketed

During just the first nine months of 2020, the number of Americans who took depression screens increased by 62% while the number of anxiety screens increased by 93% compared to the entire year of 2019

Source: Mental Health America

Number of Americans that took anxiety and depression screenings

60% of youth with major depression did not receive any mental health treatment in 2017-2018

Even in states with the greatest access, 1 in 3 children are not receiving the mental health services they need

Among youth with severe depression, only 27.3% received consistent treatment

Source: Mental Health America

Rates of suicidal ideation are highest among youth, especially LGBTQ+ youth

Source: Mental Health America

People who identify as Asian or Pacific Islander are searching for mental health resources more in 2020 than ever before

The proportion of Americans identifying as Asian or Pacific Islander that were screened for depression and anxiety in 2020 increased by 77% compared with 2019

Source: Mental Health America

2019 Screeners

2020 Screeners

23.6% of adults with a mental illness reported an unmet need for treatment in 2017-2018

This number has not declined since 2011

 Source: Mental Health America

Know the Risk Factors

Risk factors are characteristics that make it more likely that someone will consider, attempt, or die by suicide.
They can't cause or predict a suicide attempt, but they're important to be aware of.

  • Mental disorders, particularly mood disorders, schizophrenia, anxiety disorders, and certain personality disorders

  • Alcohol and other substance use disorders

  • Hopelessness

  • Impulsive and/or aggressive tendencies

  • History of trauma or abuse

  • Major physical illnesses

  • Previous suicide attempt(s)

  • Family history of suicide

  • Job or financial loss

  • Loss of relationship(s)

  • Easy access to lethal means

  • Local clusters of suicide

  • Lack of social support and sense of isolation

  • Stigma associated with asking for help

  • Lack of healthcare, especially mental health and substance abuse treatment

  • Cultural and religious beliefs, such as the belief that suicide is a noble resolution of a personal dilemma

  • Exposure to others who have died by suicide (in real life or via the media and Internet)

Know the Warning Signs

Some warning signs may help you determine if a loved one is at risk for suicide, especially if the behavior is new, has increased, or seems related to a painful event, loss, or change

  • Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs

  • Acting anxious or agitated; behaving recklessly

  • Sleeping too little or too much

  • Withdrawing or isolating themselves

  • Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge

  • Extreme mood swings

  • Talking about wanting to die or to kill themselves

  • Looking for a way to kill themselves, like searching online or buying a gun

  • Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live

  • Talking about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain

  • Talking about being a burden to others

Source: Suicide Prevention Lifeline

If you or someone you know exhibits any of these signs or behaviors, please seek help, and know that you’re not alone. Thousands of experienced and caring people are standing by ready to help guide you through any struggles you’re facing.