General, Articles
COVID-19 means different approach to Stress in America survey
By Phyllis Hanlon
Since 2007, the American Psychological Association (APA) has been gauging the nation’s attitudes and perception of stress with its annual Stress in America survey. “Every year, we take a look at what is causing stress among U.S. adults, how they are managing or failing to manage their stress and how that stress impacts their lives, relationships, work and health,” said Sophie Bethune, APA’s director of Strategic Communications Initiatives. She added that the results of the survey highlight the serious physical and emotional implications of stress. “By drawing attention to stress, we are able to start a conversation about emotional and behavioral [More]
Millenials have more health issues, according to Blue Cross Blue Shield Survey
By Susan Gonsalves
A survey by Blue Cross Blue Shield Association shows that millennial Americans are experiencing double-digit increases in eight of 10 health conditions, including behavioral health issues like major depression, substance and alcohol abuse, and hyperactivity. Brian Harvey, executive director, strategy at BCBSA explained that the organization creates an annual index, analyzing more than 200 conditions that comprise 99 percent of the claims. The report focuses on 55 million commercially insured millennials ages 21-36 from 2014-2017. A section of the report compares how older millennials fare compare to Generation X counterparts at the same age. Harvey said that many of the [More]
Maine to assess behavioral health services for children
By Catherine Robertson Souter
Looking to address issues of long wait times and limited access to mental health care, the state of Maine has initiated a system-wide assessment of its behavioral health services for children. With a series of surveys geared towards stakeholders including children and families, providers, law enforcement and corrections personnel, advocacy service providers, educators and behavioral health providers, the state hopes to gather a wide range of feedback about the system, its strengths and areas where corrections are needed. “The review will examine the service array, regulatory structure, and operational processes across Children’s Behavioral Health Services or CBHS,” said Emily Spencer, [More]