Concerns about mental and behavioral health continue to grow, with more Americans reporting increased anxiety and high stress each year. A 2024 survey by the American Psychiatric Association revealed that 43% of adults feel more anxious than they did in 2023, marking a steady rise from 37% in 2023 and 32% in 2022. The COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 underscored the urgent need for accessible mental health services, especially for those facing heightened barriers to care during a time of crisis.
This year, approximately 57.8 million American adults, or 19% of the population, were diagnosed with a behavioral health condition, yet only 43% received treatment. Employers and health plan sponsors that understand how to utilize virtual mental health services can help bridge this gap, improving access to care while reducing costs.
While an estimated 62% of individuals are open to using telehealth for mental health services, only 28% have done so. This disparity may be due to a lack of awareness regarding available virtual care options. Although the overall rate of telehealth use has declined since its 2020 peak, it still makes up 37% of mental health visits today.
Despite the drop, virtual care remains more popular than pre-pandemic levels. In fact, telehealth appointments for behavioral health conditions increased from 41.8% in early 2020 to 62.8% by the end of 2022. Offering these services can improve health equity by providing care to individuals who may not otherwise have convenient access to a mental health professional. Plan sponsors that streamline the process for members to access care can gain a competitive advantage, as virtual appointments are typically available within 43 days, compared to 67 days for in-person visits.
Telehealth also benefits those with limited mobility, chronic conditions, or who live far from mental health providers. Platforms like Embrace Health offer nationwide access to licensed therapists and psychiatrists. These services also reduce stigma, as individuals can seek care from the comfort of their own space, increasing their likelihood of seeking help earlier.
Addressing mental health issues sooner also prevents them from escalating into more severe conditions that require intensive treatment, ultimately lowering healthcare costs.
Reducing Healthcare Costs With Virtual Behavioral Health
Untreated mental health conditions have significant financial implications. The National Alliance on Mental Illness reports that untreated behavioral health issues cost $3.3 billion in indirect costs and $708.5 million in direct healthcare costs annually. Depression alone results in $47.6 billion in lost productivity each year.
Early intervention for patients with both mental health conditions and chronic physical ailments can lead to substantial cost savings. When behavioral health needs are unmet, patients often experience worsened physical and mental health, driving up healthcare expenses. A study by Accenture suggests that a 1% increase in behavioral health treatment in the U.S. could save up to $2.4 billion annually, largely due to the intertwined nature of mental and physical health.
The Future of Virtual Behavioral Health
While telehealth options existed before the pandemic, the past few years have seen a significant uptick in interest and adoption. However, some employers and health plans are not yet fully promoting these services as part of their mental health offerings.
As the demand for virtual healthcare continues to rise, more plan sponsors are realizing the benefits of integrating telehealth for behavioral health. This model not only saves time and money but also provides members with better access to the care they need.
To help members navigate their mental health care, employers and health plans can:
• Review and update behavioral health benefits to ensure they meet the needs of members
• Offer a range of access options, including virtual care
• Clearly communicate the availability of these services as part of employee benefits packages
