Why We Exist
The number of people affected by mental health problems like depression, anxiety and trauma approaches tens of millions each year. According to the National Institute for Mental Health, it is estimated that only about half of those with mental illnesses receive treatment, leaving millions untreated.
While the reasons for this are complex, affordability and accessibility to mental health care services are among the primary contributors to the chasm between need and treatment, between illness and health.
The fallout from this gap includes suicide and disability, both of which perpetuate the problem as well as place a strain on our healthcare system and our economy. It’s not just about helping a person, it’s about healing a community through counseling, training, support and equipping people to have a healthier future.
Childhood trauma and abuse may be the biggest public health problem in the U.S.
The American Academy of Pediatrics names psychological maltreatment as “the most challenging and prevalent form of child abuse and neglect.”
“To date, few preventative interventions have been funded… and are not likely to be until child sexual abuse is recognized as a public health issue.”
– Elizabeth Letourneau, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health
According to NAMI, half of all lifetime mental disorders begin by age 14 and three-quarters by age 24.
The annual cost to society of anxiety disorders is estimated to be over $42.3 billion (in 1990 dollars), often due to misdiagnosis and undertreatment. This includes psychiatric and nonpsychiatric medical treatment costs, indirect workplace costs, mortality costs, and prescription drug costs.
Five percent of adults (18 or older) experience a mental illness in any one year, equivalent to 43.8 million people.
His Story relies on the generous donations of people like you to provide counseling for those that need it. The numbers are staggering, the need is great. Our mission is to provide quality mental health care to people in need, regardless of their ability to pay. We do this with quality counselors, low overhead, and community support. Consider making a donation today, or becoming a foundation giver by providing recurring financial support for our work at His Story. Thank You!