From Pandemics to Politics: Why Mental Health Support Matters More Than Ever

by William Jones / ⠀Healthcare / July 28, 2025

May is Mental Health Awareness Month and is a key time to highlight that mental health struggles are at an all-time high. Many in the U.S. are battling stress, anxiety, and depression, and as a result, the demand for mental health care has never been greater. Since the pandemic, anxiety and depression rates have surged and many people are still adjusting to work-life changes, financial stress, and social isolation. Social media adds another layer of pressure as endless news cycles and unrealistic online portrayals fuel anxiety. Young people are especially vulnerable: over 40% of high school students report feeling persistently sad or hopeless, according to the CDC.

Many people need help but don’t know where to turn. Institutions like AMFM Healthcare are stepping up to offer forward-looking, personalized treatment options that transcend mere symptom management. This kind of solution is more critical than ever given the range and severity of mental health conditions that are occurring now. Ignoring mental health has serious consequences. Without proper care, conditions can worsen and negatively affect relationships, work performance, and overall well-being.

A New Approach to Mental Health Care

Traditional therapy often focuses only on symptoms. While this helps in the short term, lasting recovery requires a deeper, more holistic approach. Some organizations, like AMFM Healthcare, are opting to follow a Recovery-Oriented Cognitive Therapy (CT-R) approach. This inventive approach, in partnership with the Beck Institute, builds on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), but instead of just managing struggles, it focuses on strengths. This focus helps clients set goals and take control of their lives. This method shifts focus from crisis management to empowerment, encouraging clients to move forward with confidence. Because no two people experience mental health struggles the same way, treatment must be flexible. For those in need, look for organizations that offer multiple levels of care, including residential treatment, inpatient and outpatient options, telehealth, and even group therapy. This range of options allows individuals to receive the right level of support, whether they need full-time care or part-time therapy, while maintaining their daily lives.

Why Mental Health Support Matters Now

Mental health affects every aspect of life. Burnout is increasing, school-aged children are experiencing unprecedented levels of anxiety, and families struggle to support loved ones dealing with depression. The need for effective and accessible treatment is more urgent than ever.