The Evolution of the Approach to Mental Health: Towards a More Preventive Strategy

The pandemic has given us a lot to think about regarding mental health. Already on an incline, the rates of depression and anxiety have increased over the last few years.

Psychiatry is on the reactive side of mental health, addressing issues as people present with more serious conditions.

The ACEs study showed an association of trauma with mental and physical health impacts. Envisioning preventive strategies could start at the pregnancy, address parenting approaches, and enhance community and scholastic programs.

Medications have limited efficacy. A multi-pronged preventive approach will likely be the most effective.