Weston, Florida Therapists

An Overview of Mental Health in Weston, Florida

Situated along the edge of the Everglades, Weston is a charming city in Florida. Home to over 68,000 individuals, this diverse city has a wonderful downtown, easy access to major cities, and beautiful countryside. Despite the picturesque backdrop, many residents of Weston, Florida are struggling with mental health issues. There are a range of mental illnesses present in Weston and many risk factors that make it difficult for people living with a mental illness. If you or someone you know is affected by mental illness, learn how you can find hope and healing with this overview of mental health.

Mental Illness in Florida

The 2018 State of Mental Health in America report ranked Florida at 44 out of the 50 states in terms of access to mental health support. Approximately 660,000 adults suffer from serious mental illness, and the state offers the second lowest per capita spending on mental health resources. Whether you or someone you know is dealing with depression, anxiety, thoughts of suicide, or other serious mental health issues, it can be difficult to find access in the state of Florida.

Other factors in the state contribute to the effects of mental illness. Substance abuse in Florida is approximately the same as the national average, about 9%. Florida has slightly lower rates of both cigarette use and frequency of binge alcohol use. Alcohol use in particular is associated with increased rates of depression. Unfortunately, the effects are cyclical. Individuals who drink excessively typically see higher rates of depression, while at the same time individuals who are depressed have an increased risk of drinking to excess. A trained mental health professional can help you or a loved one break the cycle of alcohol and depression.

Common Mental Health Challenges in Weston, Florida

Residents of Weston face several social challenges that can increase the risk of mental illness. There are a range of mental illnesses that are common in the United States, including:

• Depression
• Bipolar disorder
• Phobias
• Personality disorders
• Eating disorders
• Post-traumatic stress disorder

These mental health issues can affect anyone, but certain risk factors can increase your likelihood of struggling with a mental illness. Poverty in particular can have a traumatic effect on mental health. Individuals living in poverty are exposed to high levels of stress, anxiety, and uncertainty about the future. In Weston, the rate of homeownership is 73.4%. This is higher than the national average, which helps to lower the local rates of homelessness. The poverty rate is 7.85 %, which is also lower than the national average. Residents of Weston enjoy, on average, a higher household income as well.

While these factors are lower in Weston than the national average, the lack of mental health resources throughout Florida can still put residents at risk. Here are a few common signs and symptoms that a person may be dealing with a mental health crisis:

• Social withdrawal
• Lower performance at school, work, etc.
• Difficulty in thinking and concentration
• Loss of motivation and initiative
• Strong mood swings
• Feelings of disconnection, nervousness and apathy

Any of these feelings or attitudes could be signs of serious mental health issues. Don’t let yourself or someone you know suffer alone with these feelings, but find out how you can get in contact with a local mental health professional today.

Divorce Rates in Florida

A common social change that can have a major impact on your mental well-being is divorce. Whether recent or far removed, experiencing a divorce can still bring up pain and sensitivity when you least expect it. Thankfully, the divorce rate in Florida has been steadily dropping in the past few decades. In 2015, only 4 out of every 1,000 individuals throughout the state experienced a divorce. However, if you know someone who has recently gone through a divorce, don’t hesitate to reach out and recommend contacting a mental health expert. Marriage or individual counseling can have a dramatic effect.