Mental Health Economics: A Primer for Therapists
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Authors
Blackmon, Braden
Issue Date
2022-12
Type
Capstone
Language
en
Keywords
economics , mental health , cost-benefit analysis , cost-effectiveness analysis
Alternative Title
Abstract
Mental illness has been identified as a global health crisis with significant economic effects. Methods of economic analysis are used to quantify the costs and benefits of programs and interventions that are put forth as candidate solutions for treating mental illness and reducing negative economic effects. Mental health economics is fundamental to decision-making within the field of mental health. Economics research has implications for therapists because it applies quantitative analysis to the benefits of therapy within the mental health marketplace. Economics research can also help reframe the perception of mental illness in terms of its socioeconomic determinants as opposed to biological determinants. Economics research suggests that some of the ways that mental illness has been conceived and treated are no longer serving society and may be making some societies worse. A better understanding of the role of economic analysis is essential for increasing the productive outcomes of mental health professionals and can lead to more productive, evidence-based outcomes in the mental health marketplace.