The 130th Annual Meeting of APHA

Abstract #44075

Christine L. Baker, MPH¹, Robin Hertz, PhD¹, Alan Unger, PhD², and Andrea Scurlock, MA². (1) Outcomes Research - Population Studies, Pfizer Inc, 235 E. 42nd Street, 300/14/1, New York, NY 10017, 212-733-9545, Christine.L.Baker@pfizer.com, (2) Quantitative Analysis Division, SAIC, 11251 Roger Bacon Drive, Reston, VA 20190

Although the prevalence of mental illness in the population has been documented, recognition among affected persons remains a problem. In this study, we seek to understand the rate of awareness of mental health conditions among affected persons, and their willingness to seek professional help once symptoms are recognized. These analyses were based on data from the National Comorbidity Survey (NCS), a nationwide probability survey of persons aged 15-54, and were adjusted to 1999 demographic proportions according to specifications from the US census. Annually, 27% of persons aged 15-54 living in the United States are estimated to have at least 1 mental health or substance-use condition. Recognition of these psychiatric conditions, however, is low among affected individuals. Only 32% of individuals with at least 1 condition have ever seen a mental health or medical professional for evaluation of their symptoms. The likelihood of this awareness varies by gender, age, and type of illness. Also, perceptions about mental illness impact help seeking. Among persons with mental illness who indicated unwillingness to seek help even if needed, only 20% have ever seen a mental health or medical professional, compared with 36% of those who are willing. Consequently, most individuals with mental illness remain unaware of their condition and are unable to gain access to treatment options that are available to them. By understanding factors related to under-awareness, healthcare professionals can play an important role in screening at-risk individuals who enter the healthcare system for reasons other than mental health services.

Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participant will be able to

• Identify the most prevalent mental health conditions among individuals aged 15 through 54.
• Identify the conditions which are least recognized among individuals with those conditions.
• Understand the stigma associated with mental health service use in this segment of the public.
• Apply this knowledge when dealing with individuals who may be experiencing, though are unaware of, a mental illness.

Keywords: Psychiatric Epidemiology, Health Care Utilization

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.