Huntersville, North Carolina Therapists

An Overview of Mental Health in Huntersville, North Carolina

Huntersville, North Carolina has grown rapidly in the past several years, with a more than three percent increase in population. The area sees plenty of sunshine, along with rainy periods and occasional winter snowfall. This climate, along with the area’s many recreational areas, may be responsible for the increase. However, as more people settle in Huntersville, this urban crowding, along with other factors, may trigger mental problems that could eventually need treatment. If you or a loved one are struggling with depression, anxiety or other types of mental illness, understanding the reasons behind it may give you the confidence to reach out for help.

Economic Factors in Huntersville, North Carolina

The median household income in Huntersville is quite higher than that of the rest of the nation, at $93,731. However, despite this amount, there are a few economic factors that may cause the development of common mental illnesses like anxiety and depression:

• Women are paid over $15,000 less than men in the area and have a lower overall annual wage than their male counterparts
• Women in Huntersville tend to have younger children, between the ages of 6-17, which could cause financial strife
• Men dominate in almost every occupational sector, which could affect the self-esteem of the women who work for them

Divorce may also affect income for those living in Huntersville, although the rate in Mecklenburg County is almost half of that of the overall nation.

The cost of living may be putting pressure on some residents of Huntersville, North Carolina, especially those who are living under the poverty level. The area’s housing costs and overall cost of living are both higher than the national average, so from buying groceries to mortgage costs, trying to make a paycheck stretch may trigger issues like anxiety and depression.

Ethnic Factors in Huntersville, North Carolina

A large chunk of the Huntersville population is Caucasian, at over 80 percent. Other ethnic groups in the area include Asians, African-Americans and a small contingency of Native Americans. Feelings of isolation and disenfranchisement may affect those who have moved to Hunterville from other countries, especially if they have trouble speaking English. Foreign-born residents may feel depressed and displaced when people in the area do not share their traditions or ideals. This may be particularly difficult for older people that come from small ethnic groups in the area, as adjusting to a new life in a strange place can be both frightening and stressful.

Genetic Factors for Mental Illness in Huntersville

Not all mental illness is triggered by stress; in fact, many disorders can be genetic. Problems such as schizophrenia, autism and compulsive behaviors may all be passed down from either parent. Some of these problems may not manifest themselves until children are in their teens and hormonal changes trigger symptoms. Individuals who are aware of any mental illness in their family may want to watch for these following changes in behavior:

• An increase in alcohol usage
• Sleeping too much or not enough
• Drug abuse
• Mood swings

Not all symptoms of genetic mental illness show themselves all at once. Some of these changes may happen gradually; for example, a relative who used to enjoy a glass of wine or two during the week now drinks every day and in the afternoons as well as the evenings. Those who turn to illegal drugs to handle their symptoms may become secretive as they try to hide their growing addiction. Reaching out for help as soon as possible may help young people suffering from the symptoms of mental illness understand and better endure them as they step on the path to recovery.

Mental Health Resources in Huntersville, North Carolina

It is never too late to seek treatment for mental health issues, and Huntersville has a variety of clinics, therapists and other professionals who may be able to help. Most of these offices are located directly in the city:

• Huntersville Police Department: 704-464-5400
• Center for Emotional Health 704-237-4240
• 988 Suicide Crisis Lifeline: 988
• The Trevor Project (LGBTQIIA+): 1-866-488-7386

It is important to remember that some of these resources may require a referral from a family doctor. If an immediate response is needed or you feel any loved ones may cause harm to themselves or others, consider dialing 911 right away.

If you are suffering from mental health disorders in Huntersville, North Carolina, asking for help can be the first step toward relief. Reach out today and take back control of your mental health.