NPR

Many Americans Experiencing 'More Mental Health Concerns Than Ever Before'

A recent poll by the Kaiser Family Foundation found more than 4 in 10 Americans say stress from the coronavirus pandemic has negatively impacted their mental health.
The Kaiser Family Foundation found more than 4 in 10 Americans say stress from the pandemic has negatively impacted their mental health.(Jude Beck/Unsplash)

The United Nations is urging leaders to address mental health as the coronavirus pandemic adds to psychological distress around the world.

A recent poll by the Kaiser Family Foundation found 45% of Americans say stress from the pandemic has negatively impacted their mental health. Many people are experiencing more mental health concerns than ever before, says Ken Duckworth, chief medical officer of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI).

The U.S. saw a between overdose has been declining over the past several years. from physical distancing, the threat of unemployment and anxiety that loved ones will get sick is accelerating this pre-existing mental health crisis, he says.

You’re reading a preview, subscribe to read more.

More from NPR

NPR3 min read
Taiwan's New President Urges China To Stop Its Military Intimidation
Taiwan's new President Lai Ching-te in his inauguration speech has urged China to stop its military intimidation against the self-governed island Beijing claims as its own territory.
NPR3 min read
Hold On To Your Wishes — There's A 'Spider In The Well'
There's trouble in the town of Bad Göodsburg! A wishing well has stopped working! NPR's Tamara Keith talks with Jess Hannigan about her new children's book, "Spider in the Well."
NPR2 min read
The Jawbone Of Washed-up Whale In New Zealand Was Removed With Chainsaw And Stolen
The jawbone of a nearly 50-foot sperm whale that washed ashore in New Zealand's southernmost region has been removed. While the act is illegal, it's also considered disrespectful to the Māori people.

Related Books & Audiobooks