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Approximately 59 million people in the U.S. (about 23% of adults) are receiving treatment for some form of mental illness each year and about 1 in 20 adults are dealing with a serious mental illness, such as chronic depression, panic and bipolar disorders, phobic anxiety, and PTSD. Fully 6% report that their condition significantly interferes with or limits important life activities.

Unfortunately, in 2023, only a little more than half of adults with a mental illness received treatment. That ranges from prescription medication (16%), outpatient care (14%) and telehealth (12%) to support through groups, peer specialists, recovery coaches or emergency services.

That leaves a lot of folks having to deal with a variety of emotional and associated physical challenges on their own -- and opening themselves up to an increased risk for heart disease and death. According to a new report out of Emory University, unmanaged depression increases the risk of cardiovascular disease by 72% and phobic anxiety boosts it by 70%. PTSD, bipolar and panic disorders increase the cardio-risk by 50% to 61%.

It may seem difficult to acknowledge your need for medical treatment, but remember, mental illness is just that -- a medical illness. You wouldn't avoid treatment for cancer, would you?

A combination of stress-reducing practices like meditation, yoga, tai chi and exercise, combined with talk therapy and, if needed, medication can transform your todays and tomorrows. For support in managing stress, explore all the latest research outlined in "The Great Age Reboot" and visit findtreatment.gov for info on treatment available near you.

Health pioneer Michael Roizen, M.D., is chief wellness officer emeritus at the Cleveland Clinic and author of four No. 1 New York Times bestsellers. Check out his latest, "The Great Age Reboot: Cracking the Longevity Code for a Younger Tomorrow," and find out more at www.4YOUngevity.com. Email your health and wellness questions to Dr. Mike at questions@4YOUngevity.com.

(c)2023 Michael Roizen, M.D.

Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.

(c) 2025 Michael Roizen, M.D. Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.