Abstract

This paper discusses the literature review and findings of low-income communities and the direct impact it has on mental health and substance use disorder. As stated in Social Psychiatry and Psychiatric Epidemiology, Bauer et al. (2021) research showed that “poverty and poor mental health are closely related”; this paper will review the direct impacts. While using literature review journals and other creditable sources, this paper will show specific mental health and substance use disorder concerns found within low-income communities, including depression, anxiety, suicide, and substance use disorder. This research will identify individuals within communities who are at greater risk due to patient care barriers, such as minorities, pregnant women, and adolescence. Current federal and state guidelines will be reviewed and the question "what more needs to be done by these agencies?" will be imposed.

Aside from federal and state agencies, healthcare professionals and community support will also be analyzed. What are current outreach programs within schools, jails, churches, and communities? Are these programs meeting the needs of low-income individuals? What additional resources can be provided to healthcare professionals and community support groups? Is this an opportunity for healthcare administrators to intervene and serve the needs of the community? Finally, we will analyze the responsibilities of individuals for preventing, identifying and seeking services from healthcare professionals and community support.

An interview with Tina Martin, Qualified Mental Health Professional (QMHP) and Executive Director for Massac County Mental Health and Family Counseling Center (Metropolis, IL) was also conducted; this will be identified as (T. Martin, personal communication, September 20, 2021). I will be using notes from the interview, to provide additional insight and provide her professional input about low-income communities.

Year Manuscript Completed

Spring 2022

Senior Project Advisor

Scott M. Douglas, Ed.D.

Degree Awarded

Bachelor of Integrated Studies Degree

Field of Study

Health Care Administration

Document Type

Thesis

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