How to Overcome the Lingering Mental Health Crisis

The views expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of ASPA as an organization.

By Sarah Sweeney
May 24, 2024

Earlier this week I heard a story on the radio about four high school students’ experience with education during the pandemic, and their reflections as graduating seniors. I was unexpectedly hit with emotion as I realized the impact isolation had on the development and socialization of these young people, and considered the spiral outward toward society in general. As an adult with fairly developed professional-level coping skills, I struggled a lot during pandemic closures, and can only imagine the lasting effects on young people who were forced to navigate an already awkward time in their development; many times in isolation. So why is it important to understand the long term outcomes of covid-related isolation on young people’s development, and what does this mean for society moving forward? I would suggest that as public administrators it is our duty to recognize and explore how our communities have and will change as a result of pandemic-era isolation, in regards to educational outcomes and employment prospects for our young people today. Furthermore, we acknowledge mental health awareness this month and so we can see the value as leaders to ensure our communities have access to vital resources and services intended to support them holistically.

The past four years were unprecedented times, and I anticipate we have not yet come to recognize the full impact of post pandemic mental health crises. As a front line social service provider my agency has experienced an uptick in clients that experienced negative outcomes stemming from pandemic-related unemployment, increased health concerns and lingering substance use and behavioral health needs. Many communities continue to face limited access to necessary services, whether it be due to staffing, funding or access. The World Health Organization has provided some insights into how we can better prepare and integrate mental health access for people managing behavioral and emotional challenges as a result of the pandemic. Additionally, tools have been made available by the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) specifically for mental health awareness month, and for everyday use. Focused efforts to engage our young people can be especially important for breaking down the stigma surrounding seeking services and support for mental health conditions, particularly since they may also help shape the future acceptance of treatment. Establishing mental health services from the beginning of one’s educational journey may also help improve access and decrease the stigma associated with seeking services later on. It could also build a more emotionally mature citizenship of future leaders within our society.

According to NAMI, in 2020 one in five young people reported that the pandemic had a significant negative impact on their mental health and 50 percent of all lifetime mental illness begins by age 14, and 75 percent by age 24. Based on this information alone we must consider the benefits of increasing access to mental health treatment and services; we will not only improve overall health outcomes in our communities but we will also see improvements in employment, education and housing. By providing equitable, affordable and accessible services in our areas we will lay a foundation for improved health outcomes for all those in our community from the youngest to the most vulnerable, which in turn increases stability and economic prosperity. Public administration is tasked with supporting and developing public policy that guides local government in making decisions in the best interest of those communities in which they serve. By improving access to mental health resources for young people we are investing in our future, and will see the benefits long-term in improved educational outcomes. I encourage all public administrators to build awareness of mental health issues in your local community and provide learning opportunities where possible. If we are successful in integrating mental health programming in early education nationwide, we may see long-term successful outcomes for all youth moving forward. If you are interested in building a more inclusive opportunity for young people in your community, and tearing down the stigma associated with seeking mental health support services, I encourage you to seek out local agencies that currently provide mental health services or take advantage of the national tools outlined in the links above.

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Author: Sarah Sweeney is a professional social worker and public administrator in Washington State.  She may be contacted at [email protected]

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