Community-based approaches to mental health support in the United States

Adetola Anifat Ajayi 1 and Matilda Akweley Thompson 2, *

1 Department of Sociology, University of West Georgia- Carrollton, GA.
2 Department of English, University of Ghana, Ghana.
 
Review
International Journal of Frontline Research in Pharma and Bio Sciences, 2025, 04(01), 001–007.
Article DOI: 10.56355/ijfrpbs.2025.4.1.0022
Publication history: 
Received on 26 March 2025; revised on 03 May 2025; accepted on 06 May 2025
 
Abstract: 
Community-based mental health initiatives have emerged as a crucial component of the U.S. mental healthcare system, addressing the gaps in traditional healthcare by providing accessible, culturally sensitive, and supportive environments. These initiatives are essential in a country where over 47 million adults experience mental illness annually, often facing barriers such as stigma, poverty, and limited access to care. Community-based models, including peer support groups and community clinics, enhance accessibility, reduce stigma, and promote recovery by fostering a sense of community and addressing broader societal factors influencing mental health. Successful initiatives like the Confess Project and Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics (CCBHCs) demonstrate the potential of community-based care to improve mental health outcomes and reduce healthcare disparities. This review highlights the importance of community-based mental health support in the U.S., emphasizing its role in addressing national health priorities and promoting a more inclusive and supportive community environment. This abstract summarizes the main points of the paper, highlighting the importance of community-based mental health support in addressing the U.S. mental health crisis.
 
Keywords: 
Community-Based Mental Health; Peer Support Groups; Community Clinics; Mental Health Initiatives.
 
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