Unprecedented Mental Health Crisis: Study Reveals Alarming Rise in Young People with Multiple Conditions and Lack of Treatment in Connecticut and Across the Country

In recent years, the number of young people diagnosed with at least two mental health conditions has increased by 48% nationally from 2018 to 2022, according to a study conducted by Cigna’s Evernorth Research Institute. In Connecticut, the rise was even more pronounced, with an increase of 24% during the same time period.

The research was based on national claims data of over 20 million individuals under the age of 26. Of those diagnosed with behavioral health conditions like anxiety and depression, a staggering 38% did not receive any treatment. This highlights a significant gap in mental health care for young people. However, despite the rising numbers in Connecticut, the state has resources available to provide quicker and easier access to mental health services compared to other states.

Dr. Laine Taylor from The Village for Families and Children in Hartford spoke about the importance of accessing care for children and families in need of mental health treatment. The state has Urgent Crisis Centers and Access Mental Health CT, which offer free consultations to doctors for mental health treatment. Additionally, the state’s mobile crisis unit can be reached through 2-1-1 for immediate assistance.

Anxiety was found to be the top diagnosis among children and young people in both Connecticut and nationally according to the Cigna data. It is important that pediatric providers screen and offer necessary treatments to meet the mental health needs of youth. Dr. Taylor emphasized that therapy is recommended by the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry for children aged 6 and older, while many young individuals who received treatment were prescribed medication only.