Poll: Californians Believe Mental Health Treatment Works

The vast majority of Californians believe mental health treatment works. But a Field Poll out today hows not as many are likely to seek treatment. 

The poll finds more than 80 percent of Californians believe people treated for mental illness lead healthier lives compared to those who go untreated. Yet one in five say they would not seek out help for themselves, even if treatment were covered by insurance.

And the poll points out about 30 percent of insured Californian’s don’t know whether mental health services are covered under their health plan. More than 60 percent are not aware that health plans are generally required to cover mental health benefits under the same parameters that apply to other medical conditions.

The study found nearly 90 percent of Californians support having their primary care doctor ask them questions to assess whether they have a mental health issue or substance abuse problem.