Psychologists in Lincoln and nationwide struggle to meet demand for mental health care

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) – For the third year in a row, psychologists are reporting an increase in the severity of symptoms among their patients.

In a survey by the American Psychological Association, behavioral health experts also said as symptoms worsened, the length of treatments got longer.

That means the majority of practitioners have no room for openings and have to put new clients on hold.

The average wait time is three months.

Dr. Dave Miers, senior director of behavioral health services at Bryan Medical Center, said a combination of the pandemic and reduced stigma surrounding mental health led to the increase in demand.

“We’re seeing more and more folks seeking treatment for depression, anxiety, but for just a wide variety of things,” he said. “What’s important is that people realize depression is one of the most treatable of the mental illnesses … and more folks are reaching out for help.”

Miers said one in four adults and one in seven children have behavioral health disorders, the common illnesses being depression and anxiety.

SEE ALSO: Suicide rates among teens and young adults down in 2022

The APA survey also showed that about a third of psychologists are feeling burned out and are dealing with their own mental health struggles.

Miers said Bryan Health’s experts practice taking care of themselves and supporting each other to avoid that burnout.

He also said they’re using telehealth more to better handle all the patients.

“And even in our emergency room, that’s something that we’ve expanded to where folks are coming in in person, but we’re also seeing folks across the state in other emergency rooms,” Miers said.

He said the problem is not just the increase in demand, but the shortage in mental health workers.

“It’s very similar to what’s happening with the nursing shortage,” he said. “So, we need to get folks, get high schoolers and even young children interested in the mental health field.”

Miers said if you’re looking for treatment but are facing long wait times, it’s best to get support from friends and family while you wait.

He adds that getting good sleep, eating a steady diet, and exercising daily can benefit your mental health.

But in the event of an emergency, don’t be afraid to get help.

“If you’re having thoughts of suicide and you feel like you need help right away, don’t hesitate,” Miers said. “Get to the emergency room and know that there are services, and there’s no waitlist for that because we can get you in right away.”

You can also call 988 to speak to a professional at any time.