The introduction of mental health access as a primary focus in prevention gained significant momentum in the 2010s. This decade saw a marked shift in public perception and policy surrounding mental health, emphasizing the importance of accessibility to mental health services as a crucial component of overall health and well-being. Various initiatives, campaigns, and legislation during this time aimed to destigmatize mental health issues and promote better access to supportive resources.
In addition, the Affordable Care Act, enacted in 2010, expanded mental health coverage for many Americans, further solidifying the commitment to improve access to mental health care. This momentum set a new standard for integrating mental health into broader public health and prevention strategies, showcasing a holistic approach that recognizes the interplay between mental and physical health.
This focus aligns with public health trends during the 2010s, where there was a growing recognition that mental health should be treated with the same importance as physical health in preventive measures, policy formation, and health care services.