Mental health issues affect millions of Americans every year. In fact, one in five U.S. adults experiences mental illness, according to a 2019 survey by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).

For some individuals, substance use disorder and mental illness issues go hand in hand. In 2019, 3.8% of U.S. adults experienced co-occurring substance use disorder and mental illness, according to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). Data suggests substance use coincides at high prevalence with mental disorders such as depression and bipolar disorder, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, psychotic illness, borderline personality disorder, antisocial personality disorder, schizophrenia and more. For teens and young adults up to 25 years old struggling with their mental health, it’s a particularly vulnerable time. Drug use is likely to start in adolescence when mental illness also commonly appears, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, which reports early drug use as a strong risk factor for the development of substance use and may also point to an increased risk for mental illness later in life.

For individuals struggling with mental illness, it’s often difficult to ask for help or receive treatment. That’s why advocating for treatment and recovery is so important in supporting those with mental illness. On the first week of October each year, we recognize Mental Illness Awareness Week and aim to create community awareness to reduce the stigma associated with mental health issues.

For those with mental illness, you are not alone and there is help available. If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues and finding treatment, NAMI is one of many resources that can provide support and education for those in need.

Cordant Health Solutions is dedicated to helping clinicians who treat patients with mental health and substance use disorders and to finding innovative solutions to help achieve better outcomes. Together, we can all make a difference.