JACKSON, Miss. ( WJTV ) – Worsening mental health continues to be a problem nationwide, but a recent report reveals that is especially the case in Mississippi.

Mental Health America (MHA) data shows Mississippi has the sixth lowest prevalence of mental illness. However, MHA revealed that mental health among Mississippi’s adults is seventh worst nationally. It also ranked 50th among U.S. states and the District of Columbia for access to mental health care. This contributed to Mississippi’s 34th overall ranking from MHA.

The state’s overall ranking dropped nine spots compared to its ranking last year. However, since 2020, the state’s overall ranking has ranged from 25th to 36th nationally. MHA used factors including the cost of mental health resources, insurance coverage, number of bad mental health days, substance abuse history and more in its analysis.

In Mississippi, over 30% of adults with frequent mental distress reported not seeing a doctor because of the cost. Residents in the state make the least amount of money per capita nationally. A recent WalletHub report reveals that Mississippi has the 5th highest percentage of uninsured adults and the 16th highest share of uninsured children.

Despite low insurance rates among Mississippi’s youth, they seem to have better mental health outcomes than adults. For instance, MHA ranked Mississippi 18th for children’s mental health and resources.

In July , the Mississippi Department of Mental Health announced the launch of its Mental Health Mississippi mobile app. It provides Mississippians with immediate access to mental health resources and support by providing the following services:

• Crisis resources and support
• Educational materials
• Interactive map
• Resource directory

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