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Patients with mental health issues getting help

According to 2016 data from all 50 states collected by Virginia-based Mental Health American, nearly six out of 10 adults with a mental health issue receive no treatment. It also reports 18.5 percent of Americans were found to be experiencing some form of mental health issue, which was a slight increase from 2015. Even more troubling is the claim that 4 percent of adult Americans report having serious thoughts of suicide.

On Monday, Minnesota Department of Human Services officials were in Marshall to visit the Western Mental Health Center. Their visit was focused on behavioral health homes services. It’s a service that is designed to help people with serious mental issues.

According to a report in the Independent, behavioral health homes services involve a team approach. Team members work with clients to help them manage both their mental and physical health. It also helps clients get access to resources that allow them to live independently.

With so many people struggling with mental issues, programs like this need to be available to all walks of life in southwest Minnesota and the rest of the state.

Of course, insurance and cost can be barriers for people suffering from mental issues. Apparently, this type of program offered in Marshall was made possible by the Affordable Care Act. These services are available to people enrolled in Medicaid.

During their visit, state officials heard testimonials from some of the southwest Minnesota residents who have taken advantage of these services.

While the Affordable Care Act has been the target of a lot of criticism, here’s one example of a major benefit that is being provided.

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