WASHINGTON — The American Psychological Association voiced strong support for President Biden’s strategy to address the nation’s mental health crisis, calling it transformative and packed with actions aimed at strengthening the mental health care system’s ability to connect more Americans to care, especially the young and those who have the greatest need.
“We are gratified that President Biden has outlined a solid plan, with a focus on youth mental health and increased access for all,” said APA President Frank C. Worrell, PhD. “This plan addresses many of the key elements we have been asking for, including programs to increase the mental health provider workforce, expansion of evidence-based community mental health services, support for telemental health care, and investment in research into promising models for treating mental health conditions.
“This blueprint could not come at a more auspicious time, as our nation and our young people in particular are experiencing a mental health crisis. This plan is transformative and we urge Congress to get behind all the elements in this plan, invest substantially in critical research, and enact the measures needed to make it a reality. We must also remember the tireless work of mental health practitioners during the pandemic and the need to remove the administrative obstacles that can prevent them from providing services to people who most need their help.”
APA pointed to the plan’s emphasis on children, veterans and other citizens who need timely access to mental health services, and the importance of funding research to validate what works and build a robust evidence base. Worrell noted that the research funding in the plan is a good start, but that more is needed.
“Psychological science has demonstrated the harm that social media can inflict on young people, so we are heartened that the plan calls for stronger online protections for young people and an end to algorithmically enhanced systems targeting kids, among other measures,” Worrell added. “It is also notable that it addresses the social determinants of health – the places where people live, work and play – as having a role in our mental health, and calls for fostering a culture that promotes mental wellness and recovery.
“The American Psychological Association is fully committed to working with the Biden administration to bring this ambitious plan to fruition as we are convinced it will help us end our nation’s mental health crisis.”