Nirmita Panchal

Sep 23, 2024 | kff.org | Heather Saunders |Nirmita Panchal |Sasha Zitter

Since the opioid epidemic was declared a public health emergency in 2017, it has claimed 454,464 lives, with opioid-related deaths rising by 67% between 2017 and 2023. Initially driven by prescription opioids and heroin, the epidemic has shifted in recent years, with illicit synthetic fentanyl—a substance 100 times more potent than morphine—now dominating most markets. Even a small amount of fentanyl can be lethal, and in 2023, 7 in 10 counterfeit opioid pills contained a deadly dose.

Aug 1, 2024 | kff.org | Nirmita Panchal |Justin Lo

Many people in the United States experience mental health conditions, which raises questions about mental health service utilization patterns and what barriers exist with connecting people to services. Prior research suggests that mental health service utilization increased over time. This analysis explores more recent data, from 2019 to 2022, to understand the latest trends in utilization of mental health services and how it differs by demographics and insured status.

Jul 31, 2024 | kff.org | Nirmita Panchal

Approximately 1 in 5 teens in the United States experience symptoms of anxiety or depression and many youth experience bullying and violence, which can have adverse effects on their mental health. Schools can play a role in promoting mental health and connecting youth to treatment. One approach that many schools have implemented is social and emotional learning, which teaches skills such as emotional management, resilience, and relationship building.

May 23, 2024 | kff.org | Nirmita Panchal |Latoya Hill |Samantha Artiga |Liz Hamel

Key TakeawaysIn the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, 90% of U.S. adults say the country is facing a mental health crisis and many reported major impacts of severe mental health problems on their families, according to a KFF/CNN survey. Additionally, drug overdose deaths sharply increased amid the pandemic and suicide deaths rose. People of color have been disproportionately affected by the rises in drug overdose and suicide deaths.

Feb 22, 2024 | kff.org | Nirmita Panchal

Firearm injuries and deaths in the United States have increased in recent years and adversely affect many children and adolescents. Firearms now kill more children and adolescents than any other cause, surpassing motor vehicle crashes. Additionally, the U.S. has by far the highest rate of child and teen firearm mortality compared to peer countries. Beyond deaths, there are many more youth who survive gunshot wounds or are otherwise exposed to gun violence.