The True Cost of Not Getting Your Head Checked

I got a brain scan this week. Without SPECT being covered by insurance, it’s out-of-pocket and not covered by insurance but big picture priceless considering the information it reveals. Seeing a picture of your brain’s activity correlates to your symptoms, challenges, and “personality”. What follows is massive hope and relief from a personalized treatment plan that can often include 100% natural approaches.

The experience got me thinking about the general cost of when mental health goes untreated. Here are a few big picture things to consider:

1. Reduced Quality of Life

Untreated mental health conditions can significantly impact a person's overall well-being and quality of life. They may experience ongoing emotional distress, difficulty functioning in daily life, strained relationships, and decreased enjoyment of activities they used to enjoy.

2. According to The Lancet Global Health

The global economy suffers a staggering annual loss of $1 trillion in productivity due to only two mental illnesses: anxiety and depression.

3. Impaired Work or Academic Performance

Mental health issues can affect a person's ability to concentrate, stay motivated, and perform effectively at work or school. Untreated conditions may result in decreased productivity, drop-outs, and difficulties in achieving career or educational goals.

4. Physical Health Complications

Mental health problems can contribute to physical health issues. For instance, chronic stress and anxiety may increase the risk of developing cardiovascular problems, digestive disorders, weakened immune systems, or sleep disturbances.

5. Financial Burden

Individuals with untreated mental health conditions may face financial challenges. Costs can arise from medical expenses, including therapy, medication, and hospitalizations. Additionally, reduced work performance or unemployment due to mental health issues can lead to income loss and financial strain.

6. Research indicates that individuals with ADD/ADHD

Earn $5,000 to $10,000 less per year compared to their colleagues. When you consider the fact that 4.4% of U.S. adults are diagnosed with the disorder, along with undiagnosed individuals, the economic costs become evident on a significant scale. ADD/ADHD also increases your risk of going to jail by 1400%.

7. Divorce, Social Isolation, and Relationship Difficulties

Untreated mental health conditions can strain relationships with family, friends, and colleagues. Social withdrawal, irritability, and changes in behavior may contribute to isolation, strained connections, and a reduced support network.

8. Increased Risk of Substance Abuse

Some individuals may turn to substance abuse as a coping mechanism for untreated mental health conditions. This can lead to further health complications, financial strain, and additional social and legal problems. As an example, Alcohol and addiction if often cited as a band-aid to soothe an overactive brain. 

Final Thoughts

All this considered, it is important to note that seeking timely and appropriate mental health treatment such as getting to the core of the issues that include a SPECT brain scan can help mitigate these costs and significantly improve overall well-being. If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues, reach out to a healthcare professional for support and guidance and consider professionals that literally look at the organ they are treating- the brain.  How do you really know unless you look?