In 2007, 10.9 percent of adults aged 18 or older (an estimated 24.3 million persons) experienced serious psychological distress (SPD) in the past year, and about two-fifths of these (44.6 percent) received mental health services in the past year.

Mental health disorders affect persons in all age, racial, ethnic, educational, and socioeconomic groups, as well as persons of both genders. Monitoring the prevalence of mental health problems and receipt of treatment is vital to ensuring that the health needs of all Americans are met.

Serious psychological distress (SPD) is a nonspecific indicator of past-year mental health problems, such as anxiety or mood disorders. This report provides information on the prevalence of past-year SPD, the receipt of mental health services, and the types of mental health services received by adults aged 18 or older. All findings are based on 2007 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) data.

Serious Psychological Distress and Receipt of Mental Health Services

http://store.samhsa.gov/product/Serious-Psychological-Distress-and-Receipt-of-Mental-Health-Services/NSDUH08-1222