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Our state has a behavioral health crisis that will not go away. It is estimated that over 53% of Massachusetts residents are experiencing behavioral health problems. This includes children, teens, adults, seniors, and veterans. They represent every income and education level, profession and profession.
No one is immune to this medical problem, often caused by trauma, chemical imbalances, genetics, or everyday problems we face. People with behavioral health problems have valid medical conditions that deserve our respect, understanding, and support, rather than being ridiculed, scorned, or hated for their behavior.
I remember talking to a Marine veteran in his late 20s who, after eight years in the Corps, came home with several medals for bravery, including a Purple Heart. He continued to experience and display anger and rage, sometimes when he least expected it. He was a great man, a brave warrior who cared for those around him. His sadistic behavior upset many of his friends, although the VA Medical System prescribed various drugs to stop the attacks. It’s sad that his friends don’t really understand or respect his medical ordeals or his often uncontrolled anger. He has now brought his affairs under control, but not before taking a toll on his personal and family relationships.
Until now, mental health clinics were overwhelmed by helping their existing patients. New patients seeking an appointment must wait weeks, if not months, for assistance. Hospital emergency departments have seen an alarming increase in people of all ages seeking urgent care. There are times when kids wait days in the ER for a proper mental health bed. To address the enormity of this health problem, Tufts Medicine plans to build a 144-bed behavioral hospital in Malden, and a growing number of police departments are providing more training in dealing with people in severe emotional distress. Health clinics should cooperate with the officers on site.
Behavioral health issues have been around for decades, but only recently has the epidemic come to the attention of the media, exacerbating emotional problems to a greater degree. From road rage to rage at retail stores and hospital staff, depression, inappropriate behavior and mood swings, they all confront us.
We’re seeing employers and managers bring in trained professionals to address behavior issues after employees spend more time working remotely. Due to the emotional issues surrounding the pandemic, schools and colleges are preparing to help their students with mental health help.
People affected by behavioral health issues face a challenging road to mental health. This is why we each need to better understand the behavioral health issues we see in others.
Billerica resident Rick Pozniak has spent 30 years in the health and risk communication field and has taught at several Massachusetts colleges.
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