Behavioral disorders: The new public health crisis

Abstract

Behavioral health has become a public health crisis. No other public health crises are as widespread or contribute as much to the burden of illness in the U.S. as do behavioral health disorders. By 2020, mental and substance use disorders will surpass all physical diseases worldwide as major causes of disability. Yet state and federal governments continue to make steep cuts to funding for public behavioral health services. We cannot afford to wait for the next national tragedy to recognize that behavioral health disorders are a public health crisis deserving of our nation's attention and support. © 2011 National Council for Community Behavioral Healthcare.