New Report Urges Collaborative Community Approach to Combat the US Mental Health Crisis
A recent report from The Cigna Group highlights the urgent need for a collaborative community approach to address the mental health crisis faced by American families. The report reveals that parents are struggling to support their teenagers’ mental health, with nearly half of parents surveyed reporting that their teenagers are experiencing mental health challenges. Additionally, one-third of parents stated that their teens struggle with sleep, further exacerbating the situation.
The impact of these challenges on parents’ mental health is significant, with over 25% of parents reporting negative effects on their own well-being. Many parents express feeling overwhelmed by their child’s emotional struggles, emphasizing the need for increased support from employers and communities.
David M. Cordani, Chairman and CEO of The Cigna Group, emphasized the importance of breaking down barriers to mental health care and providing the right support for families. He highlighted the need to equip and empower communities with the resources necessary to strengthen social connections, enhance resiliency, and improve overall health and vitality.
The report identifies several barriers that parents face in supporting their family’s mental health needs. These include a lack of awareness regarding available support and difficulty finding the right mental health provider. Cost of care is also a significant barrier, particularly for families in lower socio-economic households who are less likely to receive treatment.
To address these barriers, The Cigna Group Foundation has invested over $10.5 million in community mental health organizations through the Healthier Kids For Our Future initiative. This investment aims to improve access to mental health treatment and support for families.
Employers also play a crucial role in supporting the mental health of their employees and their families. With employers providing health insurance for a significant portion of the population, they experience the direct and indirect costs associated with the mental health crisis. The report highlights the need for employers to invest in mental health resources, such as wellness programs and mental health coaching, to better support their workforce.
Community engagement is identified as an essential aspect of mental health support, with parents rating it as important as traditional therapy. Employers are encouraged to facilitate opportunities for employees and their families to engage with their communities, fostering a sense of connection and support.
The Cigna Group’s report emphasizes that mental health is a collective responsibility, requiring collaboration between individuals, families, businesses, and community organizations. By working together, it is possible to secure the mental health of youth and ensure that people of all ages can thrive.
For more information, refer to the Economist Impact research commissioned by The Cigna Group: “U.S. Youth Mental Health Crisis Demands a Community Response.” The Cigna Group is a global health company committed to creating a better future for individuals and communities, with a focus on innovation and partnership for better health.
About The Cigna Group:
The Cigna Group, including Cigna Healthcare, Evernorth Health Services, and its subsidiaries, is a global health company with a presence in over 30 countries and jurisdictions. With more than 165 million customer relationships worldwide, The Cigna Group is dedicated to improving health and vitality.
Source: The Cigna Group