Psychological Distress in California: Identifying Those at Greatest Risk

Gina Marie Piane

doi:10.4236/ojpm.2014.48075

Abstract

In order to address the unmet need for prevention and treatment of psychological distress and mental disorders, program planners and treatment providers need to identify individuals at high risk. The results of the California Health Interview Survey from 2009 (n = 47,614) indicate that there are high relative risks by demographics and smoking status for reports of psychological distress and intermediate measures: feeling nervous, hopeless, worthless, depressed, restless, and that everything is an effort. Specific demographic factors and smoking status can predict a greater need for prevention and treatment of psychological distress and lack of insurance coverage for treatment. Profiles associated with high risk can help in referral for diagnosis or to plan prevention programs.

Highlights

According to the 1999 Surgeon General’s report, “Mental health is fundamental to health” and mental health promotion is fundamental to health promotion
Age and gender are often emphasized in the professional literature as significant risk factors for mental illnesses; the results of this study find that other demographic variables contribute more to the mental health disparities when measuring psychological distress
Smokers and others who are identified by profile risk characteristics can be given additional screening for psychological distress and mental disorders

Summary

Introduction

According to the 1999 Surgeon General’s report, “Mental health is fundamental to health” and mental health promotion is fundamental to health promotion. Mental disorders are often chronic and disabling. There is a great unmet need for prevention and treatment of mental disorders. Identifying groups at higher risk of mental disorders can both give evidence for the need and give direction to prevention and treatment efforts. Psychological Distress Serious psychological distress is a precursor to serious mental illness like depression and anxiety disorders and is a risk factor for suicide. Distress is a risk factor for cardiovascular diseases and injuries. Distress can lengthen recovery from a variety of illnesses and injuries. Serious psychological distress is prevalent and de-

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Conclusion