research

The lack of care also has its causes whether that be fear, ideas, lack of knowledge or the increasingly high price of receiving care. As of 2026 the average cost for a therapy session is between 100-200 dollars, the average person is paying 1080 dollars a year for mental health care. Spending has increased by 253 percent from 2000 with 140 billion spent in 2022. But outside of high costs there are other roadblocks that come in between those suffering and the care they need. Based on research by the national library of medicine, factors that youth report range from individual, systems, social and relationship based fears or barriers. 96% reported barriers related to individual factors such as lack of knowledge and not knowing how to seek out or where to find help. Another issue is failing to see mental health conditions as needing of care or professional support. Many youth are also doubtful of the effectiveness of the current mental health care system, causing them to avoid it. 92% reported social factors and how their peers will react and perceive mental health. Perceived stigma was the main social factor, as well as disappointing family and friends. 68% report relationship factors as a barrier. This is specifically relationships with mental health care and mental health care professionals, expressing concern over sharing with a stranger or professional. Youth are more likely to seek help if youth felt respected, listened to and not judged. 58% reported systemic and structural factors preventing care. This includes logistical factors like lack of time and resources, as well as financial factors due to the often high cost of mental health care that was mentioned before.