Therapists in Downey, CA and Nearby Locations

An Overview of Mental Health Resources in Downey, California

The west coast city of Downey, California is home to roughly 113,000 people and counting, as per 2017 data from the U.S. Census Bureau. It is not hard to see why people are seemingly moving to the city in droves. Amenities are convenient and abundant. Around just about every street corner is a good place to get some shopping done or even grab a bite to eat. Looking for a fun night out? Downtown Downey is always teeming with nightlife and things to do, ensuring residents always have entertainment. Those who prefer walking or biking over driving to and from places should be happy to know that Downey’s neighborhoods are quite walkable, in addition to a good number of bike lanes and an efficient public transportation system.

Typically, a person’s choice to move begins with a job opportunity. A raise in salary/benefits or a new job altogether is usually why people move houses. Downey, California is identical to most U.S. cities in that regard. However, many people in the city are unable to find decent-paying work. Those who can land a job are not always able to maintain it – especially with how often layoffs occur.

Downey’s economic troubles are ancillary to a separate complex, pressing issue. Experts are saying the city of Downey in addition to the rest of the United States is going through a “mental health crisis.” Let’s break down what that means, why Downey’s situation is so poor, in particular, and what you can do to get in contact with a licensed therapist who can provide help if you are in need.

The deteriorating state of mental health in Downey is not unique to that city alone. Unfortunately, problems relating to mental health are all too common in the United States. A recent report published by the National Alliance on Mental Illness estimates almost 20 percent of Americans suffer from a diagnosable mental health condition. Narrowing the scope of the statistics fails to yield better results. As per a 2017 study commissioned by Mental Health America, the state of California ranks amongst the top 50 percent of states regarding the prevalence of mental illness and the barriers to access to care. So, what is contributing to the poor state of mental health in Downey, California?

First of all, Downey has a significant crime problem. According to Area Vibes, the overall crime rate in the city is almost 20 percent higher than the national average. Not only do crimes occur more frequently in Downey than much of the rest of the nation, but the crimes also tend to take on more violent forms. Regrettably, the relationship between crime and mental health is substantial. It is no secret that areas enjoying lower rates of crime also experience less mental illness. Thankfully, city officials are attempting to tackle the crime problem, but results are not going to come overnight. In the meantime, the high rate of crime in Downey is negatively impacting the mental health of its citizenry.

The state of California’s high divorce rate also, undoubtedly, has a statistical influence on Downey’s mental health. Everyone involved in a divorce, including children, is especially susceptible to future mental disorders. Before making any permanent decisions, it is heavily advised to reach out to a counselor in an attempt to dissuade divorce.

The Trouble of Finding a Suitable Therapist in Downey, California

An unfortunate reality is Americans across the country are finding the process of seeking mental health care as being troublesome. An especially alarming study from the National Institute of Mental Health estimates a clear majority of Americans who are mentally ill receive no treatment during any given year, regardless of the necessity to do so. Experts are blaming the low amount of care received on the nationwide shortage of mental health professionals.

In the case of Downey, specifically, ineffective legislation, poverty, and stigma surrounding mental illness are what people are pointing fingers at. As per the U.S. Census Bureau, a citizen of Downey is more than two times as likely to be without any form of health insurance compared to a typical American citizen. Moreover, many who live without health insurance are also low-income earners. For them, the out-of-pocket expense of counseling is not economically solvent, and not an option.

Mental Health Resources in Downey, California

Attention from state and federal entities has allowed for more funds to be directed toward combatting mental illness. More organizations that focus on providing mental health care treatment options are popping up in the area. The Community Family Guidance Center is a local non-profit that dedicates its efforts to improving the mental health of the community. The Community Family Guidance Center offers similar services.