Therapists in Waltham , MA and Nearby Locations

An Overview of Mental Health in Waltham, Massachusetts

Located in the heart of the East Coast, Waltham, Massachusetts, is home to 62,442 residents according to the most recent report of the United States Census Bureau. There are many advantages to living in this historically significant part of the US, including proximity to both metropolitan Boston and Gillette Stadium, home of the infamous New England Patriots.

Aside from the numerous cultural and historical amenities, Waltham residents benefit from a strong education system. Schools have a lower teacher-to-student ratio than the US average, and spend more money per student, $19,400 compared to the national expenditure of $12,383. Student test scores are strong, which leads to higher graduation rates. In Waltham, 91 percent of people graduate high school with over 50 percent obtaining a college degree, in comparison to the respective average US percentages of 87.3 and 30.9. Higher education is easily accessible to residents, with two local, respected colleges within the city limits and numerous prestigious universities a short commute away.

A city of endless opportunities benefits the mental health of its population. People aspire to succeed and have hope for the future. However, sometimes life does not go according to plan. Across the United States, over 44 million adults suffer from some form of mental illness. This ranges from mild anxiety or depression to potentially debilitating psychological disorders, such as schizophrenia. It is important to recognize factors that exacerbate mental health difficulties and seek therapeutic support.

The State of Mental Health in Massachusetts

According to Mental Health America, Massachusetts has a slightly higher prevalence rate of adult mental illness (19.34 percent) than the national rate of 18.07 percent. In terms of substance abuse statistics for Massachusetts, apart from the District of Columbia, the state has the highest rate of reported drug and alcohol addiction in the US at 10.31 percent compared to the national average of 7.93 percent. The good news is that both mental illness and substance abuse are responsive to therapeutic support for those brave enough to take the initiative and seek help.

The Impact of the Economy and Cost of Living in Waltham

Compared to the national median income of $57,617, residents of Waltham are better off financially at a median salary of $82,188 per year. However, the cost of living is also significantly higher. In Waltham, the Cost of Living Index of 150 is 50 percent higher than the national average and 15 percent more than the state index. The median property value of $434,500 is more than double the national price of $205,000. Many people experience anxiety when living paycheck to paycheck. Although financial stress is relatively common, it becomes a problem when these feelings start to invade other aspects of life, such as relationships or self-esteem. Counseling helps develop strategies and techniques to effectively manage the pressures of modern life.

Population Density in Waltham, Massachusetts

The city of Waltham is roughly 12.73 square miles in size, according to the most recent census report. Based on the number of residents living within the city limits, the population density is approximately 4,922 people per square mile. To put it in perspective, there are an average of 91 people per square mile across the nation and 630 people per square mile in Massachusetts overall. This increased concentration of people impacts supply and demand, raising the costs of goods and services. Overcrowding results in more traffic, longer lines at stores, and added competition in the job market. Over time, these stressors have the potential to negatively impact emotional well-being.

Waltham, Massachusetts, Mental Health Resources

The state of Massachusetts is number one in the country for access to mental health care. The ratio of mental health providers in the state is 180:1. In comparison, the next closest state has a ratio of 230:1. Mental illness insurance coverage is also the best in the nation, with nearly 98 percent of the Massachusetts population adequately insured. Despite these positive figures, almost half of all people in the state do not receive needed support. Some barriers to seeking treatment include the perceived stigma attached to psychological services and the lack of knowledge on how to find a licensed, highly qualified professional.