Why Mental Health Should be a Top Priority of Philanthropy

Mental illness is indisputably one of America's darkest secrets. One in every five adults has been diagnosed with at least one of the four leading mental health challenges, ranging from bipolar disorder to schizophrenia to depression to anxiety, which is the most commonly diagnosed. This should be enough of a wake-up call to demand change in our mental health system, but our system remains broken — another one of our nation's darkest secrets.

Sadly, mental health struggles have only been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, which has increased the prevalence of anxiety and depression disorders by upwards of 25 percent. The pandemic disrupted our already inequitable approach to mental health care more significantly than other parts of our healthcare systems. Yet, mental health funding remains extremely, and dangerously, low. It only accounts for around 2 percent of global health funding and just 0.5 percent of philanthropic health giving.

Mental illness strains personal relationships. It challenges our criminal justice system. It's disruptive to both employment and educational opportunities. It costs people, businesses, and the healthcare industry billions of dollars each year. Even more tragically, it costs people their lives. Where is the support from the philanthropic community?

Philanthropy has a unique opportunity to address the mental health struggles that were serious before the pandemic began, but are now critical. Here is how philanthropy can be a catalyst for change and finally move the needle to undo years of stalled progress.

Social Determinants of Health

There are so many outside forces that can accompany and contribute to mental health struggles that are not being addressed in an integrated way. Social determinants of health often influence mental health outcomes more than medical care can on its own. Factors like homelessness, education, unemployment, food insecurity, early childhood development, and access to affordable healthcare can cause or worsen mental illness over time. Consider donating your money towards organizations that address these concerns so you can help break the cycle.

Crisis System Reforms

There's a growing need for timely, accessible mental health crisis response systems that serve individuals during moments of desperation, distress, and tragedy. Earlier this year, the nationwide 988 mental health crisis hotline was launched after the Federal Communications Commission proposed it to Congress back in 2019. Philanthropists can help support, develop, and maintain these life-saving response systems to help those in need, without needing to involve the criminal justice system. 

Youth Mental Health

If the children are our future, we need to ensure they are growing up in a future that has their best interests in mind. Philanthropists can consider donating to organizations that are committed to strengthening mental health support for children and adolescents. Initiatives such as addressing trauma and encouraging comprehensive mental health education in schools are essential to supporting healthy life trajectories. If young voices have access to better mental health care, they will continue advocating and fighting for changes to our system that will continue to benefit future generations.

Philanthropy can help reimagine what powerful mental health systems can look like and how we can create a nation where society can thrive.