Mental Health Concerns Are Common and on the Rise — But Help Is Available at UConn

Mental health concerns are very common, affecting people of all ages and backgrounds. In the United States, nearly one in five adults experiences a mental health condition in any given year, and even more struggle with stress, worry, or low mood at different times in their lives. These rates are even higher and rising among adolescents and young adults. Anxiety, depression, sleep problems, and difficulties coping with life changes touch many individuals and families in Connecticut, impacting them at school, work, and in relationships. For some people, these challenges become even more difficult during the winter months.

The most effective approaches to mental health problems are called “evidence-based treatments.” These are therapies that have been carefully studied and shown through research to help people feel better and function better. They are based on decades of scientific evidence and clinical trials, similar to how medicines are tested for effectiveness. Two of the most common evidence-based treatments are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which helps people identify and change unhelpful thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to distress, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), which helps people build skills to handle difficult thoughts and emotions while moving toward what matters most in their lives. Unfortunately, over ½ of all individuals with significant mental health concerns do not have access to evidence-based treatments because of where they live or because of the high cost.

The good news is that effective, affordable help is available locally in eastern CT. At the UConn Psychological Services Clinic, we provide evidence-based treatment across the lifespan, with specialized treatment available for children, adolescents, adults, families, couples, and older adults. All services are provided at very low cost on a sliding scale, even for those without insurance. We provide treatment for a range of psychological disorders (e.g., depression, anxiety, OCD), adjustment following difficult events (e.g., divorce, loss, life transitions), and general stress. Services are provided by doctoral students under the supervision of CT licensed psychologists and faculty. Currently, there is no waiting list so it is possible to start treatment right away. All services are confidential and the first session is always free.

If you would like to learn more or schedule an appointment, you can call us at 860-486-2642 or visit our website Psychological Services Clinic | Department of Psychological Sciences.