Infographic: Behavioral health and the impact of COVID-19

Consumers are increasingly turning to telemedicine for their physical and mental health needs.

Americans, for the most part, are doing well heeding stay-at-home and social distancing guidelines, even when it comes to their health care. Though overall health care utilization has decreased significantly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, telehealth visits are up significantly in recent months. Recently, the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association reported a 1.6-fold increase in visits over this time last summer.

Of particular interest is the uptick in virtual behavioral health visits. According to BCBS, some 75% of people with behavioral health issues are continuing their therapy, and only 16% have delayed a mental health appointment.

Related: Utilization dropping for many clinics, but telehealth use is increasing

For millennials in particular, continued access to health care is particularly important, as BCBS notes the increased prevalence of chronic conditions among this age cohort, which can be exacerbated by untreated mental health issues.

Take a look at the infographic below for more insights on the importance of continuing behavioral health treatment:

(Click to enlarge)

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