Indy Standard

Indiana University is planning to update a study on gaps in mental health services coverage in Marion County.

"Community Mental Health Needs Assessment Report for Marion County," released in October 2023, found that that in 2022, 66 percent of Marion County residents requiring treatment for serious mental illness did not receive it.

"Our researcher did share that there are plans for another study, with results expected in spring 2026,” Amanda Briggs, director of marketing, communication, and recruitment with the Richard M. Fairbanks School of Public Health at Indiana University, told Indy Standard. “Without the new information, she cannot determine whether the gaps in services have closed or at least narrowed. But, hopefully, after the new study we will be able to provide more information.”

The gap in mental health coverage impacted 26,000 people, according to the study. 

"This can often be a difficult population to reach," stated Marion Greene, assistant professor at the Fairbanks School of Public Health at Indiana University Indianapolis. She highlighted the challenges faced by community mental health centers due to limited resources.

The report identifies vulnerable groups including the LGBTQ+ community, incarcerated individuals, those experiencing housing instability or homelessness, and communities of color. Barriers to accessing care include workforce shortages, system complexity, and lack of transportation or internet access.

Data from local mental health centers and national agencies revealed significant figures: over 58,000 adults with substance use disorders; over 163,000 with some form of mental illness; over 39,000 with serious mental illness; nearly 41,000 with suicidal thoughts; nearly 14,000 who made suicide plans; and over 5,000 who attempted suicide.

Interviews with stakeholders led to five recommendations: sustainable funding for mental health centers; investment in workforce development; increased access to services; opportunities for cross-sector coordination; and stigma reduction.

"Our recommendations address the gaps in service that prevent Marion County residents from receiving the mental health care that they need," Greene emphasized. She noted that more funding is essential for improvement.

The Indiana General Assembly passed Senate Bill 1 in spring 2023 focusing on emergency health funding but allocated about half of the proposed budget. "In public health, we work to reduce barriers to accessing care," Greene said. "When one in five Hoosiers are affected by some mental illness...we need more funding for our mental health system in Marion County."