Jersey City, New Jersey Therapists

The State of Mental Health in Jersey City, New Jersey

The lively Jersey City, located in northeastern New Jersey, is known for the stunningly beautiful views of places like Manhattan, various islands on the water, and even the Statue of Liberty. The population of Jersey City stands at an estimated 270,753 residents, according to 2017 data from the U.S. Census Bureau. With its fantastically convenient location, it is no wonder more people are moving to the once-small town in droves. Jersey City is experiencing a population surge right now, with an annual growth rate of 9.3%. Unfortunately, that means bad news for the city’s mental health status.

Along with other contributing factors, such as homelessness, substance abuse, crime, and poverty, Jersey City, in addition to the state of New Jersey as a whole, is suffering from a mental health crisis. Never has the rate of diagnosis of mental illnesses been so high amongst those living within the city’s limits. These prognoses range in severity and can refer to anything from generalized anxiety disorder to schizophrenia and dementia. Let’s go over why Jersey City, New Jersey residents are feeling the unforgiving effects of a poor mental health rate and how to find a suitable therapist if you need help.

The unfortunate truth is that Jersey City has a crime problem. Specifically, a violent and property crime problem; both of which are indicative of high rates of substance abuse and other mental illnesses. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Jersey City’s crime rate per 100,000 people is double that of the state average in almost every category, including rape, murder, and robbery. High crime areas and mental illness statistically go together; the more pervasive crime in the area is, the more widespread mental illness is. Studies out of educational organizations like the Brookings Institute tell us that more access for citizens to facilities that specialize in treating the mentally ill means a significant crime reduction. It should be noted that the local government is taking steps to improve accessibility for New Jersians, but results have yet to come to fruition.

A surprising truth that is often overlooked is the influence education has on one’s mental health. There is a strong link between the quality of education one receives and the future of his or her mental health. This means those who receive more premium education (vis-à-vis attending a private school or an A-grade school), will be less likely to be diagnosed with a mental disorder in the future. Sadly, this effect goes both ways; if you are the recipient of poor education (vis-à-vis attending a public school with lower-than-average test scores), then you are much more likely to suffer from a mental illness in the years to come. Schools in Jersey City, New Jersey seldom boast high test scores. The average test score in the city is a comparatively low 32%, according to Area Vibes. The state average test score is 43%, while the national average is 49%. Jersey City’s test scores are far below that of a typical relatively mentally-sound population. These scores are partly responsible for forming a vulnerable demographic.

Another vulnerable demographic that is all too prominent in Jersey City, New Jersey is homeless individuals. Jersey City has the second-highest population of those without a home; these people are either living in shelters or just on the streets, as per a study commissioned by NJCounts. Homelessness has an unfortunate tie to mental illness; over 25% of those on the streets suffer from a severe mental illness, such as schizophrenia, according to the National Coalition for the Homeless.

The Trouble of Finding a Suitable Therapist in Jersey City, New Jersey

Access to the proper treatment is crucial if you are diagnosed with a mental illness. Regrettably, a clear majority of those in need of healing will not get the attention that’s required. This problem has largely been blamed on stigma, lack of funding, and a lack of insurance to pay for health care. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, 17.4% of those in Jersey City are going through life without health insurance; that’s more than double the national average. Consider the relatively high poverty rate of the area, and it’s a recipe for disaster.

The problem of a lack of suitable care is further exacerbated by the difficulty of finding a therapist. Many times, people who seek counseling are overwhelmed. That’s why it’s best to collect your thoughts, and set clear, achievable goals that you want to reach during your time in therapy. Find out what is troubling you, and how therapy could be beneficial.

Mental Health Resources in Jersey City, New Jersey

As mentioned before, the state of New Jersey has acknowledged the necessity of expanding access to mental health care. Several renowned institutions specialize in providing care to those suffering from mental illnesses. Bridgeway Rehab, for example, offers a wide array of services to Jersey City residents dealing with substance abuse problems. There are also mental health clinics servicing those in the area, as well, like Christ Hospital Psychotherapy Behavioral Health.