USA: mental health and cuts to public health

Psychological well-being: a global priority

On the occasion of World Health Day, it is important to reflect on the significance of recognizing mental health as a universal right. It is an essential part of human well-being, which is often overlooked. However, millions of people worldwide face obstacles in accessing psychological support services due to economic, social, and political barriers. The World Health Organization (WHO) emphasizes the importance of ensuring accessible and quality care for all, without discrimination.

In recent years, increasing attention to the issue has led to significant progress in global health policies. Still, deep inequalities in access to care persist, worsened by factors like poverty, conflicts, and economic crises. In this context, public institutions’ support is crucial for funding and strengthening mental health services. In the United States, recent political developments show how institutional decisions can undermine this right, with potentially serious consequences for millions of citizens.

The cuts: who suffers the most?

In the United States, mental health issues are one of the main challenges in public health. According to the data of the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), about one in five Americans experiences a mental health disorder each year, but many do not receive adequate care due to high costs and a lack of available services, especially in vulnerable communities.

The recent decision by the Trump administration to cut $12 billion in federal funding for public health has raised significant concern among experts. These funds were designated for essential programs, including prevention and treatment of mental health issues and addictions. In particular, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) faced a reduction of $11.4 billion, while the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) saw a cut of around $1 billion, putting services for millions of citizens at risk.

The effects of these cuts are already being felt. In Lubbock, Texas, the health department had to suspend three key programs, including those dedicated to the prevention and treatment of infectious diseases, significantly impacting the management of the local health crisis. In states like Maine and Rhode Island, officials are trying to reorganize services to cope with the funding reductions, but many areas are expected to see layoffs of specialized staff, including psychologists and epidemiologists.

Consequences and Future Outlook

The reduction in federal funding risks leaving millions of people with mental health disorders without support, increasing the number of untreated psychiatric emergencies and pressure on emergency rooms. It could also impact prevention campaigns, reducing access to treatment for depression, anxiety, and addictions.

Health organizations and advocacy groups are calling for a rethink of these policies, emphasizing that investing in mental health is not only a social need but also an economically beneficial choice. Studies show that every dollar invested in mental health programs can generate significant economic returns by reducing costs related to unemployment, crime, and emergency medical care.

Mental health cannot be overlooked

The right to mental health cannot be sacrificed for short-term economic decisions. The United States, like many other nations, faces the need to rethink its healthcare strategies, ensuring that psychological support is accessible to everyone. Investing in mental health is not just a matter of social justice, but a key element for the collective well-being and stability of the country. Recognizing this and acting accordingly is essential to build a society that does not only survive but blooms.

Translated by Gaia Ciceri

Mondo Internazionale APS - Riproduzione Riservata ® 2025