Here are 10 stats to know about the behavioral health workforce, according to a survey from the National Council for Mental Wellbeing published April 25:
- Ninety-three percent of behavioral health providers reported experiencing burnout.
- Ninety percent are concerned about the ability of those not currently receiving care to gain access to mental healthcare.
- Eighty-seven percent are concerned about the ability to provide mental healthcare should there be another health crisis in the future.
- Eighty-three percent reported being worried that behavioral health workforce shortages will negatively impact society as a whole.
- Eighty-three percent believe that provider organizations won't be able to meet the demand for mental health or substance use care without policy changes.
- Sixty-eight percent reported the amount of time they spend on administrative tasks limits time they could be using to directly support clients.
- Forty-eight percent reported workforce shortages and its impacts have made them consider other employment options.
- Seven in 10 behavioral health providers reported increased client severity since the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Two in 3 behavioral health providers reported increased client caseload.
- One in 3 behavioral health providers reported spending most of their time on administrative tasks.