Many Americans are struggling with mental health concerns like depression and anxiety, exacerbated by social isolation, economic insecurity, and fear about the future. The U.S. faces a shortage of mental health professionals to meet the growing service demand.
Americans’ Mental Health in the COVID-19 Period
Americans’ mental health took a hit as the country battled the COVID-19 virus. More than 40 percent of adults reported anxiety or depression symptoms at the height of the pandemic, four times the rate before.
A 2020 report by the Kaiser Family Foundation found that 119 million Americans live in areas with a shortage of mental health professionals. Just 25 percent of the national need for mental health professionals is being met.
How Telehealth Can Help
Telehealth services have become increasingly popular due to the pandemic and offer a more affordable option for patients. A 2021 McKinsey study found that telehealth utilization increased 38 times from the pre-pandemic baseline. Fifty percent of psychiatry visits between April 2020 and February 2021 were conducted virtually, making it the specialty with the highest telehealth adoption rate.
Telehealth, or telemedicine, uses digital communication technologies to deliver healthcare services and information. Research is finding that telehealth can be beneficial for treating depression and anxiety.
If you suffer from depression or anxiety, telehealth may be a good option for you. Telehealth, also known as telemedicine, offers many benefits for people with mental health conditions.
Here are some of those benefits:
1. It Removes Barriers to Getting Help
Many things can make it hard for you to get the treatment you need for depression. These can include not having enough time, not having a way to get to appointments, or not having any providers near you. Some days, getting out of bed can be hard enough. Getting dressed and driving yourself to a provider’s office can seem impossible. Telehealth can help by letting you get care from your home.
2. It Is Conveniently Accessible
For many people who are depressed or anxious, traveling more than 10 miles to see their health care provider can be challenging, especially if they do not have a car. This can be a problem for those who have to travel frequently for their job, as they may not be able to keep their appointments while protecting their precious hours in their home community. Additionally, those with mobility challenges do not have to worry about if the doctor’s office is accessible.
3. It Works as Well as In-Person Sessions
An online psychiatrist visit is just like an in-person appointment, but you can do it from the comfort of your own home. You’ll talk to your provider through your computer or smartphone’s camera and mic, and they’ll be able to answer any questions you have in real-time. Your psychiatrist will review your medication with you and can call in a refill to your pharmacy if you need it. If you’re starting a new medicine or changing the dose of an existing drug, your doctor can let you know what to expect and what side effects to look out for.
Conclusion
For people suffering from depression and anxiety, telehealth is a convenient, affordable way to get the care they need. You can access a psychiatrist from the comfort of your home and see a provider without traveling miles or waiting days to get an appointment.
Amodeus Healthcare is composed of advanced nurse practitioners who know that life stressors can get in the way, along with life demands. We created Amodeus with our clients in mind. We offer you an easier solution through our medical and psychiatric services. If you’re looking for telepsychiatric services in Londonderry, NH, we’ve got you covered. Get in touch with us today!