Numerous government health bodies acknowledge depression as a serious health problem. Only between June 29 and July 11, 2022, about 23.2% of individuals in the United States reported having a depressive disorder (Elflein, 2022). Depression is characterized by chronic sadness and a lack of interest in or enjoyment of once-delightful activities. It may also impair appetite, attention, and sleep (World Health Organization, 2021). Additionally, it can cause disabilities and significantly increases the burden of sickness on the planet. There are several types of structures to assist people in fighting depression on national, state, and local levels in the United States. Therefore, national, state, and local levels of government cooperate to combat this health-harming disease.
The national level government develops and enforces basic requirements that states subsequently build upon as a primary source of financing for mental health care. Additionally, it makes investments in tested initiatives like the Minority Fellowship Program, Behavioral Health Workforce Education and Training Program, and National Health Service Corps that train professionals in behavioral health (The Federal and State role in mental health, 2022). Since American states have a great amount of authority to influence choices regarding their mental health systems, there are differences in mental health laws and services from one state to another. States are free to go beyond what is mandated at the federal level and enhance services, accessibility, and consumer safeguards while still adhering to some federally specified requirements. States can develop innovations that can be implemented across the nation because of the freedom to experiment with finance and delivery approaches (The Federal and State role in mental health, 2022). Local level is where implementation takes place. The resources for behavioral health in their communities, which are frequently managed at the state or federal level, are under the responsibility of local authorities.
In conclusion, the issue of depression must be addressed on all levels. Success depends on expanding collaborations between these local governments and the financing organizations for behavioral health. The national level establishes common healthcare standards, state-level decisions have to navigate this issue, and local communities use the instruments given to combat the challenge of depression. Only by collaboration by these three levels is it possible to address depression effectively.
References
Depression. (2021). World Health Organization.
Elflein, J. (2022). Depressive symptoms among adults U.S. 2022. Statista.
The Federal and State role in mental health. (2022). Mental Health America.