CA Cut More Than $587 Million in Mental Health Spending

By Alex Groberman, Thu, March 10, 2011

According to a new report entitled “State Mental Health Cuts: A National Crisis,” California has cut over $587 million in state spending on mental health over the last two years. This total, unfortunately, means that California has reduced the amount of money spent on mental health care more than any other state in the nation.

16 percent reduction since 2009

In total, the cuts represent a 16.3 percent reduction in the amount spent on health in 2009. That year, a little over $3.6 billion was devoted to investment in mental health care. In 2011, that figured dropped to slightly more than $3 billion.

One of the biggest reasons for the drop in mental health care spending by California has been the worst recession since the Great Depression. Because of financial concerns, huge reductions were made to non-Medicaid state mental health spending. Some reports note that over the last two years, the cuts to such spending exceeded the $1 billion mark.

While the dire financial situation in California makes these cuts at least partially understandable, mental health experts warn that these reductions come at a cost. After all, less money for mental health care when there have been no indications that the mental health of citizens is improving means just one thing – worse care for patients with mental health issues.

Free Treatment Assessment
Call Now—Help Available 24/7 (877) 331-9311

OCD Self Test

Do you or a loved one feel like you might have a problem with OCD?
Take the Self Test now to get more information.

Sponsored Links

The information provided on brainphysics.com is designed to support, not replace, the relationship that exists between a patient/site visitor and his/her health professional. This information is solely for informational and educational purposes. The publication of this information does not constitute the practice of medicine, and this information does not replace the advice of your physician or other health care provider. Neither the owners or employees of brainphysics.com nor the author(s) of site content take responsibility for any possible consequences from any treatment, procedure, exercise, dietary modification, action or application of medication which results from reading this site. Always speak with your primary health care provider before engaging in any form of self treatment. Click here to read our complete Terms of Use.