Voters Support Mental Health Interventions

By Sean McElwee, co-founder of Data for Progress

The United States is experiencing a mental health crisis among its adolescents. Nearly one in five children suffer from mental health issues, and rates of suicide and depression have risen over 50 percent in recent years. However, voters support a wide range of policies to make access to mental health care universal.

Executive Summary:

  • Voters overwhelmingly support both an expansion of mental health services in schools, and requirements to cover mental health care.

  • Support is strong across partisan lines and could be a path for Democrats to improve margins with independent voters.

  • Women voters are more supportive of mental health interventions than men, offering a path for Democrats seeking to peel off women voters already concerned about Trump.

Healthcare, 2020 ElectionSean McElweeHealthcare, Children and Families, Disability