Mental Health Treatment on the Rise Among Adolescents and Adults

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) released its National Survey on Drug Use and Health for 2023, revealing a significant increase in mental health treatment among adolescents and adults.

The survey found that nearly one in three adolescents (8.3 million) received mental health treatment in 2023, up from 7.7 million in 2022. This represents a positive trend, as efforts to normalize and destigmatize seeking mental health treatment continue.

The most common form of treatment was outpatient therapy, followed by medication. Notably, the number of adolescents receiving medication for mental health treatment increased from 12.8% in 2022 to 13.9% in 2023.

Among adults, the rate of mental health treatment also rose, from 21.8% in 2022 to 23% in 2023. The use of prescription medication for mental health treatment also increased, from 15.2% to 16.3%.

Vaping and Marijuana Use Trends

The survey also examined trends in substance use. While traditional cigarette use continued to decline, nicotine vaping increased to 9.4% of adolescents and adults, up from 8.3% in 2022.

Marijuana use remained relatively stable, with 21.8% of adolescents and adults reporting use. However, underage marijuana use decreased slightly to 18.4%.

Alcohol Use Sees a Dip

Alcohol use saw a statistically significant drop in 2023, with 47.5% of adolescents and adults reporting drinking in the past month, compared to 48.7% in 2022. However, rates of alcohol abuse remained largely unchanged.

Overall, the survey provides valuable insights into mental health and substance use trends in the United States. The increase in mental health treatment is encouraging, while the trends in vaping and alcohol use warrant further attention.