Ann Arbor, Michigan Therapists

An Overview of Mental Health Resources in Ann Arbor, Michigan

Ann Arbor is a charming Big Ten university town located in the state of Michigan. The University of Michigan is the city’s largest employer, but there is also a plethora of well-paying jobs in the local medical sector, as well as in the high-tech sphere. While other areas of Michigan have struggled following the 2008-2009 economic recession, Ann Arbor has thrived.

The city currently has a population of approximately 120,000, a roughly 10,000-person increase from the U.S. Census. This surge in population reflects the fact that Ann Arbor is an attractive location for many people to live. Although the city has become more diverse with time, it is significantly more white than much of Michigan. The current population is roughly 73% white and Asians represent the single largest ethnic group.

Even though there is some crime in Ann Arbor (like in any metropolitan area), the city is largely seen as being very safe.

Ann Arbor Mental Health

Recent statistics suggest that the median household income in Ann Arbor is approximately $58,000 per year. This figure is almost exactly in line with national averages of $56,500. It is interesting to note that even though the median household income in Ann Arbor is relatively robust, there is a significant level of poverty. Roughly 1 out of 4 individuals in Ann Arbor is living in poverty. This is a startling figure. It is important to remember that poverty is often linked to additional stress anxiety, and other mental health challenges. One potential explanation for these seemingly disproportionately high poverty rates could be the large number of students and graduate students living in the community who have low-paying jobs.

It is worthwhile to note that many residents of Ann Arbor hold college degrees, and many also have completed graduate work. Although it is not a perfect indicator of mental health, well-educated individuals are often more willing to embrace mental health assistance (in various forms) if they feel they are struggling, compared with their less educated peers. This suggests that mental health may be better in Ann Arbor than it is in other communities.

Mental Health Statistics

Alarming new statistics have emerged recently for Michigan. The CDC reported that over the last two decades, suicide rates have soared in Michigan, increasing more than 40%. Perhaps not surprisingly, this surge in suicides coincides with the state’s economic downturn. Often economic uncertainty triggers anxiety and other mental health challenges. And, what is happening in Michigan should not be surprising.

Divorce rates in Michigan are also high, with statistics showing that more than 65% of first marriages end in divorce. Divorce is a multi-dimensional issue, but economic challenges likely contribute to stress and increase the likelihood of a person divorcing. Divorce itself can also dramatically increase stress, anxiety, and depression symptoms, spurring a downward spiral.

Mental Health Resources in Ann Arbor

Given that Ann Arbor is the home of the University of Michigan, which has a highly respected medical center, Ann Arbor has more mental health professionals available for patients than many similarly sized towns. Many Ann Arbor organizations recognize that some people, particularly those who are vulnerable, are priced out of many mental health services; and, this has dangerous consequences. In response to this, the Women’s Center of Southeastern Michigan (located at Eastern Michigan University) has launched special pricing programs to increase accessibility.

Because there are a relatively large number of mental health professionals in the community, patients can search for and find a provider who they are comfortable with. It is also possible for patients to find providers who specialize in unique problems and who offer highly individualized approaches.

Moving forward, hopefully, the number of providers in the city will continue to increase, ensuring that everyone who could benefit from health assistance will be able to find a provider who meets their needs at a price they can afford.