Americans say their well-being isn't made a priority: Axios-Ipsos poll

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: Axios
25 Feb 15:09

US citizens show concern in a new poll over the government's lack of concern with their health.

In this Aug. 10, 2021 photo, mental health advocate Kevin Berthia, who has survived his own suicide attempts, wears wristbands with the name of his mental health foundation. (AP)

The majority of Americans polled in the new Axios-Ipsos American Health Index believe businesses and the government do not prioritize residents' health and well-being.

People are increasing their spending on mental health services, while the federal government has provided additional funds to states to expand community behavioral health centers.

Despite increased attention and awareness of mental health and telemedicine services, stigma and a lack of access continue to prevent people from getting needed treatment.

The majority of respondents (86%) said their emotional well-being is very good or somewhat good, compared to 13% who said it is poor or somewhat poor, according to a nationwide poll of 1,213 U.S. adults.

However, almost three-quarters of the people polled say they do not believe that the government and businesses are prioritizing people's health, and only 28% believe that the government is ready for another pandemic. Moreover, less than half have reported that they trust the information on health topics that they receive from their state's governor.

The same percentage said their mental health is good. More Republicans (92%) said their mental health and well-being were good compared to Democrats (85%).

In the previous year, 18% of respondents said they had spoken with a mental health expert or counselor. It's also crucial to point out that 75% of those polled said they are somewhat or firmly opposed to using AI for mental health therapy instead of individual counseling.

Investor financing has increased for digital behavioral health startups, including those that create chatbots to support mental health.