Mental Illnesses by the Numbers

Redesigned web section adds interactive tools, sharing features

January 29, 2018 • Science Update

The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) has launched a redesigned Statistics section on its website that features interactive data visualization tools and sharing capabilities. The section also features improved organization, navigation, and accessibility. The goal: To help people understand the impact of mental illnesses.

“There is power in numbers,” said Joshua A. Gordon, M.D., Ph.D., director of NIMH. “Mental illnesses affect tens of millions of people in the United States and across the globe each year. Each of these individuals has a singular, compelling story that conveys an understanding of the depth of suffering. Statistics build on this foundation by helping us better understand the broader scope and impact of mental illnesses on society.”

This section includes statistics on prevalence and treatment utilization for mental illnesses, and possible consequences of mental illnesses, such as suicide and disability. The original data sources, which include reports and surveys conducted by Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), among others, should still be cited when using these statistics. Data sources are noted on each page.

The Statistics section is a living resource and will be updated regularly as new data are released. To check out the new features, visit www.nimh.nih.gov/statistics. Follow NIMH on social media or subscribe to emails for alerts and data highlights.