_01.jpg)
A summary report discussing how the CDC measures mental illness and the statistics that go with it was released on 9/02/11. This report focused on adults in the US, and the primary diagnosis it looks at is Depression, leaving Anxiety (which may have a higher rate of diagnosis) out of the equation. The actual CDC report can be cumbersome to get through, but they have some interesting data tables including state-by-state data that was eye-opening.
A better look at this report was summarized by Dr. John Grohol from PsychCentral. He pointed out the significance in missing anxiety as a primary diagnosis. He also pointed out that it has been known for a long time in the mental health world that mental health problems correlate with physical health problems, and the CDC just now seems to be catching on to that fact. It is a good read for anyone interested.
Some may wonder if the information form the CDC is really important. To be honest, their approach to data collecting does not seem to be the best so I would question their efficacy. However, there is still such stigma on mental illness that any data that demonstrates the prevalence of mental illness is important. When you know there are a LOT of people out there who suffer from depression, anxiety, etc. it can help you understand that you are not “weird” or “different” just because you are struggling. When people are embarrassed by their problems, and therefore don’t seek help for them, they are more likely to get worse rather than better. Understanding that mental health problems such as depression and anxiety are normal experiences, and that when they don’t get better (i.e. become a “disorder”) there is help available, is always a benefit. Therefore, even the not-so-great CDC report is better than not addressing the issue at hand.