Black adults more likely to use EDs for mental health disorders

Black adults use emergency departments for mental health disorders at higher rates than other race and ethnicity groups, according to a report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. ED visit rates for specific mental health disorders, including substance use disorders, anxiety disorders and mood disorders also were highest among Black adults. The report found Hispanic adults use EDs for mental health disorders at lower rates than other race and ethnicity groups. The findings corroborate previous research showing certain race/ethnicity groups are less likely to receive routine mental health care, and that mental health disorders frequently are diagnosed at ED visits. (CDC study, 3/1/23)