In a recent press statement, UBH Denton explains, "As awareness surrounding mental health increases, society is breaking down the stigma that surrounds this complicated issue. As a result, we are becoming more aware of just how prevalent--and troublesome--mental health issues are within the United States and the rest of the planet."

As advocates in the United States strive to increase mental health treatment options, new reports reveal that the efforts behind such expansion may need to become even more intensive. For example, a recent article from NPR explains, "Mental disorders and substance abuse are the leading causes of nonfatal illness on the planet, according to an ambitious analysis of data from around the world. A companion report, the first of its kind, documents the global impact of four illicit drugs: heroin and other opiates, amphetamines, cocaine and cannabis. It calls illegal drugs 'an important contributor to the global burden of disease.' The two papers are being published by The Lancet as part of a continuing project called the Global Burden of Disease."

While these findings track the prevalence of substance abuse and mental illness across the globe, UBH Denton notes that one of the most important observations relates to the accessibility of treatment for both issues. NPR states, "The burden of mental disorders and substance abuse far outweighs the resources devoted to preventing and treating them, the [study] authors note. A third to a half of people with mental and drug use disorders go without treatment in wealthier countries, and up to 85 percent go untreated in less-developed countries, a previous study UBH Denton Warns of Incredible Growth in Substance Abuse & Mental Health Issue Page 2 reported."

UBH Denton comments in a recent press statement, "It is very important to acknowledge the general lack of mental health and substance abuse treatment programs available to afflicted citizens throughout the planet. Often times, these matters can go hand-in-hand, such as when those who are severely depressed self-medicate through alcohol abuse. When paired, substance abuse and mental illness can lead to dangerous--and often, fatal--consequences for the patient."

While the consequences of untreated mental illness or addiction problems may be widely recognize, NPR notes that it remains hard for such treatment programs to become more available to citizens. One reason for the lack of accessibility may be "because deaths are usually ascribed to the immediate physical cause rather than the underlying reason."

In an effort to look at the greater picture of mental illness and substance abuse, those who are suffering from such matters within the state of Texas are invited to review the many specialized programs offered by UBH Denton.

ABOUT: UBH Denton, or University Behavioral Health Denton, is a freestanding psychiatric hospital in Denton, Texas. The facilities were founded in 2005 and continue to offer mental health and chemical dependency treatment to suffering individuals. The staff is incredibly knowledgeable, and the hospital adopts an evidence-based treatment approach that has proven positive outcomes. The facilities meet the needs of children, teenagers and adults in both inpatient and outpatient settings.