The State of Mental Health in the U.S.: Where We Are in 2025
If it feels like mental health conversations are everywhere these days, it’s because they are—and for a good reason. The mental health crisis in the U.S. isn’t slowing down. Nearly 60 million adults (that’s 1 in 4) have experienced mental illness in the past year, and an alarming 13 million people had serious thoughts of suicide. In fact, 2022 saw the highest number of suicide deaths in U.S. history (Mental Health America, 2024).
But here’s the thing—awareness is growing, and more people than ever are prioritizing their mental well-being. As we head into 2025, 33% of Americans have made mental health resolutions, the highest number since 2021. Younger adults, especially those aged 18-34, are leading the charge in normalizing therapy, mindfulness, and self-care (American Psychiatric Association, 2024).
So, where do we stand in the fight for better mental health care? Let’s break it down.
A Step in the Right Direction: Crisis Care is Evolving
One of the biggest challenges in mental health care? Access to immediate support. Long wait times for therapists and psychiatrists often leave people with no choice but to turn to emergency rooms for help during crises.
To address this, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) introduced the 2025 National Guidelines for a Behavioral Health Coordinated System of Crisis Care. This initiative aims to make mental health crisis care:
More accessible – Expanding the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline to provide immediate support.
More effective – Increasing mobile crisis teams that bring mental health professionals directly to people in distress.
More equitable – Ensuring that emergency mental health services are available to all communities (SAMHSA, 2025).
This shift means people can get the right help, in the right place, at the right time—without relying on already overwhelmed emergency rooms.
Breaking Down Barriers: The Future of Mental Health Care
While progress is happening, barriers still make mental health care hard to access for many people. The biggest challenges?
Long wait times for therapy and psychiatric care. Workplace stress and burnout at an all-time high. Stigma that still stops many from seeking help.
Experts suggest that integrating mental health into primary care, using technology like AI, and creating more supportive workplaces will be key solutions in 2025 (World Economic Forum, 2025). More companies are recognizing the importance of mental health and offering benefits like therapy stipends, flexible work hours, and mental health days.
How Cardinal Hope Can Support You
At Cardinal Hope, we know that navigating the mental health system can feel overwhelming. That’s why our team of licensed therapists is here to provide personalized, virtual support—so you can get the help you need from the comfort of your own home. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, or past trauma, we're here to walk alongside you.
If you’re ready to take the next step toward better mental health, schedule a virtual session with one of our therapists today. You don’t have to go through this alone.
References
Mental Health America (2024) – MHA State of Mental Health Report
American Psychiatric Association (2024) – More Americans Making Mental Health Resolutions
SAMHSA (2025) – 2025 National Guidelines for Crisis Care
World Economic Forum (2025) – 4 Imperatives for Improving Mental Health Care