CVS Health® Survey Highlights Growing Mental Health Concerns
A recent survey conducted by CVS Health® (NYSE: CVS) in collaboration with Morning Consult reveals an alarming trend: concerns about mental health are on the rise across the United States.
Key findings from the survey include:
- Two-thirds (65%) of adults express worries about their own mental health or that of their friends and family, marking a six-percentage-point increase from 2022 and a notable 15-point increase from 2020.
- Mental health ranks among the top concerns for 77% of adults, on par with issues like the economy (81%).
- Parents are particularly concerned about their children’s mental health, with 70% expressing worry, surpassing concerns about physical health (66%).
- When seeking care, respondents are inclined towards both mental well-being apps (48%) and therapy (55%).
Dr. Taft Parsons III, Vice President and Chief Psychiatric Officer at CVS Health, remarks, “Mental health concerns have been steadily mounting since 2020. Factors such as uncertainty about the future, ongoing events, and the pervasive influence of social media contribute to heightened anxiety among adults. CVS Health remains steadfast in our commitment to enhancing access to high-quality mental health care, both virtually and in-person, and ensuring resources are available to address individual needs.”
The survey also sheds light on the impact of social media on mental health:
- Nearly four in 10 adults (37%) believe social media has had a negative impact on society.
- One-third of adults are taking steps to limit their social media usage, such as turning off notifications.
- Half of parents believe social media affects their children’s worldview and development.
- However, over a third of adults (36%) credit social media with increasing awareness of mental health issues.
Dr. Parsons adds, “While technology has facilitated greater access to mental health care, with CVS Health recording over 43 million virtual mental health visits since 2020, it’s essential to recognize the drawbacks of social media on mental well-being. We must establish boundaries and educate ourselves and our children on responsible usage.”
CVS Health’s commitment to mental health care is evident through various initiatives:
- MinuteClinic® offers in-person and virtual mental health services in select states, with approximately 78% of patients reporting a reduction in depression symptoms.
- Depression screenings are available through MinuteClinic and Project Health.
- The CVS Health Foundation supports organizations providing accessible mental health services to adolescents and young adults.
- Resources for Living (RFL) offers comprehensive mental health support, leading to improved access and cost savings.
- CVS Healthspire™ and affiliated partners prioritize mental health screenings and appointments alongside physical health care.
To further support mental well-being, CVS Health provides resources and guides tailored to diverse populations, including the LGBTQ+ community, young adults, and parents, through its online platform.
For additional information on CVS Health’s efforts to enhance mental health care accessibility and convenience, visit CVSHealth.com.
Methodology:
The survey was conducted by Morning Consult from March 19-21, 2024, among a national sample of 2,202 adults. The margin of error for the full sample is plus or minus two percentage points. Interviews were conducted online and data were weighted to approximate a target sample of adults based on demographic factors.
About CVS Health:
CVS Health® is a leading health solutions company dedicated to improving community health across America. With over 300,000 dedicated colleagues, including physicians, pharmacists, nurses, and nurse practitioners, CVS Health delivers care and support in the most convenient ways possible. The company strives to enhance access, lower costs, and provide trusted partnerships for every aspect of health care, with a focus on delivering compassionate service every day.
