Utah Leads The Nation (Again) In Mental Illness

[Everybody Wang Chung]

Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles? 17 Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit.

I'm sure that this has nothing whatsoever to do with the Mormon faith or perfectionism, which often leads to scrupulosity. I'm also pretty sure this has nothing to do with the cultural need to appear happy and not process one's emotions, which often forces people to hide real mental/emotional struggles. And finally, I'm sure this has nothing whatsoever to do with thinking that depression is a sin, which often leads one to ignore medical advice and prevent people from getting professional treatment (just pray more and study the scriptures more).

Whatever the cause, congratulations are in order!



https://worldpopulationreview.com/state ... s-by-state

[MG 2.0]

Utah Leads The Nation (Again) In Mental Illness? What are the accepted reasons and/or rationales behind this?

Utah consistently ranks among the states with the highest prevalence of mental illness, including depression, anxiety, and serious mental illness, as well as some of the highest rates of suicide in the nation. Several accepted reasons and rationales help explain why Utah leads—or is near the top—on these measures:

High Prevalence and Key Statistics

Roughly 22% of adults in Utah report dealing with a mental illness, compared to a national average closer to 19%.

Utah ranks 11th highest for adults with any mental illness, 3rd highest for adults with serious mental illness, and 4th highest for adults with serious thoughts of suicide.

About 40.9% of adults in Utah reported symptoms of anxiety or depression in early 2021, and 26.4% were unable to get needed counseling or therapy.

Suicide is a leading cause of death for Utahns ages 10 to 24.

Accepted Reasons and Rationales

1. Limited Access to Mental Health Care

Utah has a shortage of mental health providers in every county, with fewer providers per 100,000 people than the national average.

Nearly half of Utah’s adults and more than half of Utah’s youth with mental health conditions do not receive the necessary services or treatment.

Cost, lack of insurance, and being forced out-of-network for mental health care are significant barriers.

2. Cultural and Social Pressures

Utah’s strong focus on family, religion, and community can create pressure to conform to social expectations, leading to feelings of isolation for those who feel they don’t fit the traditional mold.

There is a cultural stigma around discussing mental health struggles and seeking help, which can prevent individuals from reaching out and exacerbate feelings of failure or inadequacy.

The “quest for perfection” and reluctance to show weakness are frequently cited as contributing factors.

3. Rural Isolation

Large rural areas in Utah result in many residents being cut off from healthcare services and social support, increasing the risk of untreated mental health conditions.

Rural isolation also makes it harder to access timely and appropriate care.

4. High Rates of Depression and Suicide

Utah has some of the highest rates of depression, especially among teens and young adults.

Suicide rates are among the highest in the country, and suicide is the leading cause of death for young people in the state.

5. Systemic and Structural Issues

Utah’s mental health system is fragmented, with gaps in services and barriers to providing and accessing care.

The COVID-19 pandemic amplified existing pressures on Utah’s limited mental health workforce and increased demand for services.

6. Other Contributing Factors

Substance abuse, traumatic brain injuries, and domestic violence are also cited as factors that increase mental health risks in Utah.

Postpartum depression rates are high, particularly among low-income mothers

What Utah Has Been Doing to Address Mental Illness:

Utah has launched a comprehensive, multi-pronged effort to address its high rates of mental illness and improve behavioral health outcomes. Key actions and strategies include:

1. Major Investments and System Reform

The Utah Legislature has made significant investments in behavioral health services, including ongoing funding for crisis response and intervention programs.

A statewide Behavioral Health Master Plan was developed to guide private and public sectors toward more equitable, aligned, and effective behavioral health systems, emphasizing timely, person-centered, and culturally responsive care.

The Utah Behavioral Health Commission was established to coordinate and assess progress, releasing annual reports and recommendations for system improvements.

2. Crisis Response Expansion

Utah dramatically increased its crisis line workforce and launched the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, providing 24/7 support for mental health emergencies, suicide prevention, and substance use crises.

The crisis response system has expanded to include mobile crisis outreach teams, community-based behavioral health receiving centers, and plans for new crisis care centers, such as the Kem and Carolyn Gardner Crisis Care Center opening in 2025.

3. Improved Access and Integration

Efforts focus on integrating mental health with primary care, increasing screenings for depression and suicide risk, and improving treatment coordination between providers.

The Huntsman Mental Health Institute has expanded integrated care into dozens of specialty and community clinics, launched collaborative care programs, and placed social workers in primary care settings to streamline behavioral health referrals.

4. Rural and Underserved Community Initiatives

Utah has prioritized improving access in rural areas through grants, telehealth expansion, and specialized training for providers serving rural and underserved populations.

Programs like the Multicultural Rural Mental Health Grant and targeted investments in telehealth have increased services and reduced stigma in hard-to-reach communities.

5. Youth and School-Based Programs

There is a focus on youth mental health, with increased access to school-based mental health services, use of the SafeUT app for crisis support, and programs to ease transitions from inpatient to community care.

6. Ongoing Evaluation and Collaboration

Utah’s approach is iterative, with ongoing evaluation of program impacts, stakeholder engagement, and updates to the Behavioral Health Master Plan based on emerging needs and feedback.

I've heard that the surrounding states around Utah seem to have similar statistics. Is this so? Why?

Yes, Utah's surrounding states—such as Idaho, Wyoming, Nevada, Colorado, New Mexico, Montana, and Arizona—also report high rates of mental illness, suicide, and unmet mental health needs, similar to Utah.

Evidence from Rankings and Data

Utah ranked 51st (last) on adult mental health measures in 2018, with neighboring states like Nevada (50th), Idaho (45th), Montana (34th), and Colorado (40th) also ranking poorly, indicating high prevalence of mental illness and low access to care.

Many of these states share similar challenges, including high suicide rates and shortages of mental health providers, especially in rural areas.

Reasons for Regional Similarities

1. Rural Isolation and Provider Shortages

The Mountain West region is characterized by large rural areas with sparse populations, making access to mental health care difficult. Most counties in Utah and neighboring states are designated as Mental Health Professional Shortage Areas, and the ratio of child psychiatrists is particularly low in Utah, Idaho, and South Dakota.

2. Demographic and Social Factors

The region has a higher proportion of youth and young adults, who are at increased risk for mental health challenges and suicide.

Cultural and social norms in these states can contribute to stigma around mental health, discouraging individuals from seeking help.

3. Economic and Systemic Barriers

Many Mountain West states have lower rates of insurance coverage for mental health and fewer resources devoted to behavioral health services, resulting in higher unmet needs.

4. Shared Environmental and Lifestyle Factors

Factors such as geographic isolation, economic stress in rural communities, and limited social support networks are common across the region and contribute to elevated rates of depression, anxiety, and suicide.

Perplexity A.I.

More information is always better, right Mr. Wang? (think and ponder about Heber C. Kimball and abortion...)

Regards,
MG

[Everybody Wang Chung]

Are there religious reasons that contribute to Utah leading the nation in mental illness?

Search

Sources
12
Religious and Cultural Factors Contributing to Utah’s Mental Health Trends
Utah consistently ranks among the states with the highest rates of mental illness and antidepressant use, despite also being one of the least affected by substance abuse. While mental health is influenced by a complex interplay of factors, several religious and cultural dynamics related to Utah’s predominantly Latter-day Saint (LDS/Mormon) population are frequently discussed as contributing factors:

Perfectionism and High Expectations

LDS culture often emphasizes ideals of perfection, strong family values, and high moral standards. Some mental health professionals and researchers suggest that this can create intense pressure to appear happy, successful, and spiritually “worthy,” which may lead to increased stress, anxiety, and depression, especially when individuals feel they fall short of these ideals.

Women, in particular, may experience unique pressures related to family size, motherhood, and roles prescribed by religious teachings, potentially increasing their risk for depression and anxiety.

Stigma and Misunderstanding of Mental Illness

There is anecdotal evidence that some within LDS culture may view mental illness as a spiritual failing or a lack of faith, leading to stigma or reluctance to seek professional help. For example, some church teachings have been interpreted as suggesting that happiness is a choice, which can make those with depression feel misunderstood or invalidated.

This stigma may also contribute to underreporting or delayed treatment, exacerbating mental health issues.

Social Pressure and “Surface Happiness”

The expectation to present oneself as happy and successful (“surface happiness”) can discourage open discussion of personal struggles and create a sense of isolation for those experiencing mental health challenges.

Members may feel compelled to hide their difficulties to conform to community norms, which can worsen feelings of loneliness and despair.

Limited Use of Coping Mechanisms Common Elsewhere

LDS teachings prohibit the use of alcohol and other substances that some people elsewhere use to self-medicate or cope with stress. This may lead more individuals to seek medical treatment for depression and anxiety, contributing to higher rates of diagnosed mental illness and antidepressant use.

Alternatively, it may reflect a greater willingness to seek help rather than self-medicate, which could be seen as a positive aspect of the culture.

Community Support: A Double-Edged Sword

While strong community and church networks can provide support and resilience, they can also amplify feelings of exclusion or failure for those who do not fit the expected mold or who are struggling privately.

Summary Table: Religious Factors and Mental Health in Utah

Religious/Cultural Factor Potential Mental Health Impact
Perfectionism/High Expectations Increased stress, anxiety, depression
Stigma about Mental Illness Reluctance to seek help, isolation
“Surface Happiness” Pressure Concealment of struggles, loneliness
Prohibition of Alcohol/Substances Higher rates of seeking medical help
Community Support Both protective and risk factor

Important Context
Not all research finds a direct causal link between LDS membership and higher rates of mental illness; some studies suggest that frequent church attendance can be protective against depression. However, the unique interplay of religious expectations, cultural norms, and mental health in Utah remains a topic of ongoing discussion and research.

Experts caution against oversimplifying the relationship between religion and mental health, as both positive and negative influences can coexist within the same community.

In summary, while religion is only one of many factors influencing Utah’s mental health trends, aspects of LDS culture—such as perfectionism, stigma, and social expectations—are frequently cited as contributing to the state’s high rates of reported mental illness.

Perplexity A.I.

Yes MG, more information is better.

[MG 2.0]

Are there religious reasons that contribute to Utah leading the nation in mental illness?

Search

Sources
12
Religious and Cultural Factors Contributing to Utah’s Mental Health Trends
Utah consistently ranks among the states with the highest rates of mental illness and antidepressant use, despite also being one of the least affected by substance abuse. While mental health is influenced by a complex interplay of factors, several religious and cultural dynamics related to Utah’s predominantly Latter-day Saint (LDS/Mormon) population are frequently discussed as contributing factors:

Perfectionism and High Expectations

LDS culture often emphasizes ideals of perfection, strong family values, and high moral standards. Some mental health professionals and researchers suggest that this can create intense pressure to appear happy, successful, and spiritually “worthy,” which may lead to increased stress, anxiety, and depression, especially when individuals feel they fall short of these ideals.

Women, in particular, may experience unique pressures related to family size, motherhood, and roles prescribed by religious teachings, potentially increasing their risk for depression and anxiety.

Stigma and Misunderstanding of Mental Illness

There is anecdotal evidence that some within LDS culture may view mental illness as a spiritual failing or a lack of faith, leading to stigma or reluctance to seek professional help. For example, some church teachings have been interpreted as suggesting that happiness is a choice, which can make those with depression feel misunderstood or invalidated.

This stigma may also contribute to underreporting or delayed treatment, exacerbating mental health issues.

Social Pressure and “Surface Happiness”

The expectation to present oneself as happy and successful (“surface happiness”) can discourage open discussion of personal struggles and create a sense of isolation for those experiencing mental health challenges.

Members may feel compelled to hide their difficulties to conform to community norms, which can worsen feelings of loneliness and despair.

Limited Use of Coping Mechanisms Common Elsewhere

LDS teachings prohibit the use of alcohol and other substances that some people elsewhere use to self-medicate or cope with stress. This may lead more individuals to seek medical treatment for depression and anxiety, contributing to higher rates of diagnosed mental illness and antidepressant use.

Alternatively, it may reflect a greater willingness to seek help rather than self-medicate, which could be seen as a positive aspect of the culture.

Community Support: A Double-Edged Sword

While strong community and church networks can provide support and resilience, they can also amplify feelings of exclusion or failure for those who do not fit the expected mold or who are struggling privately.

Summary Table: Religious Factors and Mental Health in Utah

Religious/Cultural Factor Potential Mental Health Impact
Perfectionism/High Expectations Increased stress, anxiety, depression
Stigma about Mental Illness Reluctance to seek help, isolation
“Surface Happiness” Pressure Concealment of struggles, loneliness
Prohibition of Alcohol/Substances Higher rates of seeking medical help
Community Support Both protective and risk factor

Important Context
Not all research finds a direct causal link between LDS membership and higher rates of mental illness; some studies suggest that frequent church attendance can be protective against depression. However, the unique interplay of religious expectations, cultural norms, and mental health in Utah remains a topic of ongoing discussion and research.

Experts caution against oversimplifying the relationship between religion and mental health, as both positive and negative influences can coexist within the same community.

In summary, while religion is only one of many factors influencing Utah’s mental health trends, aspects of LDS culture—such as perfectionism, stigma, and social expectations—are frequently cited as contributing to the state’s high rates of reported mental illness.

Perplexity A.I.

Yes MG, more information is better.

From your A.I. inquiry:

Not all research finds a direct causal link between LDS membership and higher rates of mental illness; some studies suggest that frequent church attendance can be protective against depression. However, the unique interplay of religious expectations, cultural norms, and mental health in Utah remains a topic of ongoing discussion and research.

Experts caution against oversimplifying the relationship between religion and mental health, as both positive and negative influences can coexist within the same community.

Mental health issues are an ongoing problem looking for solutions. Apparently the State of Utah is moving forward in finding and implementing those solutions.

Good for them!

Regards,
MG

[Everybody Wang Chung]

MG,

Agreed. After decades of leading the nation in mental illness, I'm glad they are finally starting to look for solutions to the problem . It's unfortunate but according to Perplexity A.I., one of the problems is the church.

Here's a prediction for you -- Utah will always lead or be close to the top in mental illness as long as the church holds significant influence in Utah.

[MG 2.0]

MG,

Agreed. After decades of leading the nation in mental illness, I'm glad they are finally starting to look for solutions to the problem . It's unfortunate but according to Perplexity A.I., one of the problems is the church.

Here's a prediction for you -- Utah will always lead or be close to the top in mental illness as long as the church holds significant influence in Utah.

Inquiry: In the last few years have we seen a move on the part of the LDS Church away from the constant drum banging on the topic of perfectionism?


Recent Shifts in the LDS Church’s Approach to Perfectionism
Less Emphasis on Perfectionism, More on Grace

In the last few years, there has been a noticeable shift in the messaging and teaching within The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church) regarding perfectionism. Recent research and official Church publications increasingly emphasize the dangers of "toxic perfectionism" and highlight the role of grace, faith, and the gradual nature of spiritual growth, rather than a relentless pursuit of flawlessness.

Key Findings and Messaging:

Lower Rates of Toxic Perfectionism: Contrary to common stereotypes, recent studies show that Latter-day Saints actually experience lower rates of toxic perfectionism compared to atheists, agnostics, and even former members of the Church. Only 12% of Latter-day Saints surveyed reported high toxic perfectionism, similar to other religious groups, but significantly lower than non-religious individuals.

Focus on Grace and Christ’s Role: Church leaders and educators are increasingly teaching that perfection comes only through Jesus Christ, and not through personal effort alone. The doctrine is being reframed to stress that individuals are perfected in Christ over time, not through immediate or self-driven achievement. Scriptural references and official commentary now frequently underscore that grace—not works—is central to salvation and spiritual progress.

Healing from Perfectionism: Leaders and mental health professionals within the Church are openly discussing the negative impacts of perfectionism and encouraging members to reframe negative thought patterns. The narrative now stresses that God’s love and acceptance are not contingent on flawless behavior, and that striving for perfection should not lead to anxiety or despair.

Cultural and Doctrinal Adjustments: While perfectionism was historically emphasized in LDS culture, recent messaging, including from President Russell M. Nelson and other Church authorities, has clarified that perfection is a long-term, post-mortal process, not an immediate expectation.

There has been a clear move away from "constant drum banging" on perfectionism within the LDS Church in recent years. The focus is now on grace, the enabling power of Christ, and a more compassionate, long-term view of spiritual development. This shift is supported by both new research and evolving doctrinal emphasis in official Church teaching and publications

Or maybe not.

Regards,
MG

[MG 2.0]

Inquiry: At times in the past the church has taught that "happiness is a choice", which can then make those with depression feel misunderstood or invalidated. Is the church still teaching that?

Current LDS Church Teachings on "Happiness is a Choice" and Depression
Continued Use of "Happiness is a Choice" Language

Recent LDS Church materials and leaders continue to use the phrase "happiness is a choice" in various settings. For example, Church magazines and talks from 2017 and 2018 explicitly state, "Happiness is a choice for most of us," and "happiness is a choice that anyone can make," emphasizing personal agency and the idea that attitude and gratitude can influence happiness. This messaging is echoed in recent talks and social media posts as well.

Nuanced Approach to Mental Health

However, the Church has also made significant efforts to clarify that this principle does not apply universally, especially regarding clinical depression and other mental health challenges. Official Church resources and articles now stress that depression is a real medical condition, not a result of unrighteousness, lack of faith, or simply a negative attitude. Leaders such as Elder Jeffrey R. Holland have publicly taught that mental illness is not a spiritual failing and that those who suffer should not feel shame or guilt for their struggles.

Church publications now specifically address the misconception that depression is a sign of weak character or spiritual deficiency. They emphasize that feelings of sadness or depression are not always within one's control and that seeking professional help, using medication, and relying on the Savior are all valid and necessary steps for many.

Movement is in the right direction.

Regards,
MG

[Everybody Wang Chung]

Does LDS culture often emphasizes ideals of perfection

Search

Sources
8
LDS Culture and the Emphasis on Perfection
Overview

LDS (Latter-day Saint) culture is widely recognized for its emphasis on high standards and ideals, including the pursuit of perfection. This cultural focus is rooted in both doctrine and community expectations, but its interpretation and impact are complex and nuanced.

Theological and Cultural Foundations

The doctrine of perfection is central in LDS theology, drawing from scriptural injunctions such as Matthew 5:48 ("Be ye therefore perfect") and teachings that encourage members to strive for Christlike attributes.

Historically, LDS teachings have often emphasized not just outward conduct but also inner thoughts and feelings, making the ideal of perfection particularly demanding compared to other cultural or religious groups.

Over time, LDS leaders have shifted language from strict perfection to encouragements like "strive" and "do your best," aiming to mitigate some of the psychological burdens associated with perfectionism.

Cultural Manifestations and Effects

Many Latter-day Saints report experiencing significant pressure to meet high standards in various aspects of life, including appearance, behavior, and spirituality.

The culture can foster both adaptive (healthy) and maladaptive (toxic) forms of perfectionism. Adaptive perfectionism involves setting high goals while maintaining self-acceptance in the face of failure, whereas toxic perfectionism ties personal worth to flawless achievement and can lead to feelings of inadequacy and spiritual distress.

Studies indicate that perfectionism is particularly prevalent among Mormons, with a notable portion experiencing high levels of self-oriented perfectionism.

The pressure for perfection can lead some to feel "never good enough," contributing to mental health struggles and, in some cases, weakened religious commitment.

Efforts to Address Perfectionism

Recent LDS leadership and official publications have increasingly emphasized God's unconditional love and the importance of recognizing one's inherent worth, irrespective of achievement, in an effort to counteract toxic perfectionism.

There is a growing awareness within the community and among scholars that misunderstanding the doctrine of perfection can distort spiritual life and mental health, prompting calls for a more balanced perspective.

Summary Table: LDS Culture and Perfectionism
Aspect Description
Theological Basis Scriptural and doctrinal emphasis on becoming perfect or Christlike
Cultural Practice High expectations for behavior, appearance, and inner purity
Forms of Perfectionism Both adaptive (healthy) and maladaptive (toxic) perfectionism are present
Psychological Impact Can lead to self-acceptance or, conversely, anxiety, depression, and spiritual disconnection
Recent Shifts Increased focus on grace, effort, and self-worth to counteract harmful perfectionist tendencies
Conclusion
LDS culture does often emphasize ideals of perfection, both doctrinally and culturally, which can foster both positive striving and problematic perfectionism. While the Church is increasingly addressing the downsides of toxic perfectionism, the ideal of perfection remains a prominent feature of LDS life and identity.

Perplexity A.I.

MG, unfortunately yes. At least according to Perplexity A.I.

This is fun.

[MG 2.0]

Does LDS culture often emphasizes ideals of perfection

Search

Sources
8
LDS Culture and the Emphasis on Perfection
Overview

LDS (Latter-day Saint) culture is widely recognized for its emphasis on high standards and ideals, including the pursuit of perfection. This cultural focus is rooted in both doctrine and community expectations, but its interpretation and impact are complex and nuanced.

Theological and Cultural Foundations

The doctrine of perfection is central in LDS theology, drawing from scriptural injunctions such as Matthew 5:48 ("Be ye therefore perfect") and teachings that encourage members to strive for Christlike attributes.

Historically, LDS teachings have often emphasized not just outward conduct but also inner thoughts and feelings, making the ideal of perfection particularly demanding compared to other cultural or religious groups.

Over time, LDS leaders have shifted language from strict perfection to encouragements like "strive" and "do your best," aiming to mitigate some of the psychological burdens associated with perfectionism.

Cultural Manifestations and Effects

Many Latter-day Saints report experiencing significant pressure to meet high standards in various aspects of life, including appearance, behavior, and spirituality.

The culture can foster both adaptive (healthy) and maladaptive (toxic) forms of perfectionism. Adaptive perfectionism involves setting high goals while maintaining self-acceptance in the face of failure, whereas toxic perfectionism ties personal worth to flawless achievement and can lead to feelings of inadequacy and spiritual distress.

Studies indicate that perfectionism is particularly prevalent among Mormons, with a notable portion experiencing high levels of self-oriented perfectionism.

The pressure for perfection can lead some to feel "never good enough," contributing to mental health struggles and, in some cases, weakened religious commitment.

Efforts to Address Perfectionism

Recent LDS leadership and official publications have increasingly emphasized God's unconditional love and the importance of recognizing one's inherent worth, irrespective of achievement, in an effort to counteract toxic perfectionism.

There is a growing awareness within the community and among scholars that misunderstanding the doctrine of perfection can distort spiritual life and mental health, prompting calls for a more balanced perspective.

Summary Table: LDS Culture and Perfectionism
Aspect Description
Theological Basis Scriptural and doctrinal emphasis on becoming perfect or Christlike
Cultural Practice High expectations for behavior, appearance, and inner purity
Forms of Perfectionism Both adaptive (healthy) and maladaptive (toxic) perfectionism are present
Psychological Impact Can lead to self-acceptance or, conversely, anxiety, depression, and spiritual disconnection
Recent Shifts Increased focus on grace, effort, and self-worth to counteract harmful perfectionist tendencies
Conclusion
LDS culture does often emphasize ideals of perfection, both doctrinally and culturally, which can foster both positive striving and problematic perfectionism. While the Church is increasingly addressing the downsides of toxic perfectionism, the ideal of perfection remains a prominent feature of LDS life and identity.

Perplexity A.I.

MG, unfortunately yes. At least according to Perplexity A.I.

This is fun.

More information the better. Folks can then determine their own thinking based on more information, not less.

Including whether or not Heber C. Kimball was in favor of abortion. (Sorry, just had to throw that in there.)

viewtopic.php?f=4&t=159694&start=10

Regards,
MG

[Everybody Wang Chung]

MG, I couldn't agree more. More information is better. Folks can then determine their own thinking based on more information, not less. Including whether or not MG constantly lies, misuses quotes/sources, trolls or has noble intentions here. (Sorry, just had to throw these in there.) Here are just a few of the many threads exposing our MG 2.0. Enjoy:

viewtopic.php?f=4&t=1156&hilit=troll

viewtopic.php?f=4&t=1311&hilit=troll

viewtopic.php?f=4&t=157138&hilit=troll

viewtopic.php?f=4&t=157279&hilit=troll

viewtopic.php?f=4&t=159560&hilit=troll

This is fun.