Recent findings from a survey conducted by CVS Health® (NYSE: CVS) in collaboration with Morning Consult underscore the mounting concerns surrounding mental health among adults across the United States.
The survey indicates a significant uptick in apprehension regarding mental well-being. Two-thirds (65%) of adults expressed worries about their own mental health or that of their loved ones, marking a six-percentage-point increase from 2022 and a 15-percentage-point surge from 2020.
Moreover, the survey highlights a pervasive national unease, with approximately eight in 10 adults (77%) ranking mental health as a paramount concern, aligning it with issues like the economy (81%).
Of particular note is the parental concern for their children’s mental health, with 70% expressing worry, surpassing concerns about physical health (66%).
In terms of coping mechanisms, respondents indicated a likelihood to seek support from both mental well-being apps (48%) and therapists (55%).
Dr. Taft Parsons III, Vice President and Chief Psychiatric Officer at CVS Health, commented on the escalating apprehension: “Mental health became a top concern in 2020 and it has only risen since… Our priority, across CVS Health, remains improving access to quality virtual and in-person mental health care and ensuring we have resources in place to address the unique needs of individuals.”
The survey also delved into the impact of social media on mental health. Nearly four in 10 adults (37%) believe social media has had a detrimental effect on society. As a result, one-third of adults have taken measures such as disabling notifications and reducing their time spent on social media platforms. Concerningly, half of parents feel that social media is influencing their children’s worldview and development.
However, there’s a silver lining as more than one in three adults (36%) reported that social media has educated them about mental health issues.
Dr. Parsons III emphasized the importance of navigating the influence of social media on mental health, suggesting the need to acknowledge its limitations and establish boundaries for both adults and children.
As a leading healthcare provider, CVS Health remains committed to expanding access to mental health services. Initiatives include offering in-person and virtual mental health services through MinuteClinic®, providing depression screenings, and supporting community programs aimed at adolescent and young adult mental health.
Additionally, CVS Health has seen positive outcomes from its efforts, such as a reduction in suicide attempts among Aetna members and increased depression screenings through various programs.
For those seeking more information on mental health services and resources, CVS Health offers comprehensive guides and support through its website, CVSHealth.com.
The survey was conducted by Morning Consult between March 19-21, 2024, with a national sample of 2,202 adults. The margin of error for the full sample is plus or minus two percentage points, with data weighted to approximate a target sample of adults based on demographic factors.
