What does this measure?

The number of visits to mental health clinics during the week of a state survey, expressed as a rate per 1,000 residents. Visits may be made by residents of other counties, as the data are reported by the location of the clinic.

Why is this important?

Mental illness can decrease one's ability to function in daily life and is the leading cause of disability in the United States. Effective treatment and support services can help individuals improve and recover from mental illnesses.

How is the region performing?

There were 5.7 mental health clinic visits per 1,000 residents in the Mid-Hudson Valley region in 2023, compared to 7.3 in the state (excluding NYC). In the decade from 2011 to 2023, the region experienced a 15% increase in the rate of mental health clinic visits. This is lower than the 41% increase for NYS as a whole over the same period.

While Dutchess and Columbia had declines over this period (of 38% and 18%, respectively), all other regional counties had double-digit increases in mental health visits. Aside from Greene, with a 12% increase, Orange had the highest increase of 73%, Sullivan and Ulster had increases of 48% and 34%, respectively and Putnam increased by 22%. In 2023, Greene had the highest rate of mental health clinic visits in the region at 8.5, while Dutchess, at 3.9, had the lowest.

Notes about the data

Data come from the NYS Office of Mental Health's Patient Characteristics Survey, which is completed during one week every two years. A statewide decline of 6,000 patients (or about 3.5%) from 2005 to 2007 could be due to a shift in survey method from paper-based to Web-based, as some providers had difficulty making the transition. All agencies that receive state funding take part in the survey.