Rational and problem statement

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Addressing Public Health Challenges: Mental Health Disparities, Chronic Diseases, and Environmental Health Risks

Quannessa Beasley

The University of Phoenix

MPH/570

Ms. Rose

0908/2025

Addressing Public Health Challenges: Mental Health Disparities, Chronic Diseases, and Environmental Health Risks

Part 1: Brainstormed Topics

Public health issues impact populations in various settings, such as urban areas, workplaces, and vulnerable communities. One pressing concern is mental health disparities in cities, where access to care is limited due to socioeconomic barriers. Workplace stress also poses a significant problem, affecting employees’ productivity and overall health. Chronic diseases like diabetes and hypertension are prevalent in underserved neighborhoods, linked to lifestyle choices and systemic inequities in healthcare. Environmental health concerns, such as air pollution and water contamination, pose serious risks to both urban and rural populations. Addressing these public health challenges requires comprehensive solutions that focus on improving access to care, reducing stress in the workplace, promoting healthier lifestyles, and mitigating environmental hazards. By tackling the root causes of these issues, such as improving healthcare systems and creating safer environments, we can create lasting positive change in public health for all communities.

Part 2: Exploration of 2-3 Issues

Mental Health Disparities

Existing policies such as the Affordable Care Act (ACA) have expanded mental health coverage, yet disparities persist. Studies reveal that low-income individuals and minority populations are less likely to access mental health services due to stigma, cost, and provider shortages (Abuse, 2020). Current policies are effective to a degree but fail to address the root causes of disparities, such as social determinants of health (Jack, 2021). A new policy that prioritizes community-based mental health programs and integrates mental health care into primary care settings is essential to bridging these gaps.

Chronic Disease Management

Policies such as the National Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) aim to reduce the prevalence of chronic diseases like diabetes. While effective in promoting awareness and early intervention, these policies often lack sufficient funding and fail to reach marginalized communities (Jack, 2021). A new approach focusing on localized interventions, including community health workers and culturally tailored education programs, could enhance the effectiveness of existing efforts.

Environmental Health

The Clean Air Act and Safe Drinking Water Act provide regulatory frameworks to address pollution and contamination. However, enforcement of these policies is inconsistent, particularly in low-income areas (Lu, Lopez-Castro, & Vu, 2023). The effectiveness of these policies is limited by funding constraints and political challenges. A comprehensive policy that incorporates stricter enforcement mechanisms and increased funding for affected communities could significantly improve health outcomes.

Part 3: Summary

During the brainstorming process, I identified several public health issues affecting diverse populations, including mental health disparities, chronic diseases, and environmental health risks. After careful consideration, I chose to focus on mental health disparities as the primary topic for my Capstone Project. This issue resonates with me personally, and I believe it is critical to addressing broader health inequities. Although existing policies like the Affordable Care Act have made significant strides in expanding access to mental health care, systemic barriers continue to limit care for vulnerable populations, including low-income individuals and minorities (Abuse, 2020). These barriers often include stigma, cost, and a shortage of mental health providers. To address these issues, I propose developing a policy that integrates mental health care into primary care settings and prioritizes community-based interventions. By addressing the social determinants of health, such a policy could create a more equitable health care system and reduce mental health disparities (Jack, 2021; Lu, Lopez-Castro, & Vu, 2023).

References

Abuse, S. (2020).
Key substance uses and mental health indicators in the United States: Results from the 2019 National Survey on Drug Use and Health. Retrieved from

Jack, L. (2021).
Advancing health equity, eliminating health disparities, and improving population health. Preventing Chronic Disease, 18(18).

Lu, W., Lopez-Castro, T., & Vu, T. (2023).
Population-based examination of substance use disorders and treatment use among US young adults in the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 2011–2019. Drug and Alcohol Dependence Reports, 8, 100181.