Mental health resources, research, and statistics in Reading, Pennsylvania

The State of Mental Health in Reading, PA

Mental health remains a pressing concern for the residents of Reading, PA, with a notable portion of the population experiencing significant mental health challenges. An estimated 20.3% of adults report experiencing poor mental health for at least two weeks each month, highlighting the ongoing need for accessible care and support services. However, barriers to mental health care persist, as 12.3% of Reading’s adults are uninsured, and for every mental health provider in Berks County, there are 603 patients annually, emphasizing a provider shortage that affects timely access to treatment.

The need for support is further underscored by statewide trends, with 32.8% of Pennsylvanians reporting symptoms of anxiety and depression and 25.7% unable to access needed counseling or therapy. Cost remains a significant barrier, with 32.7% of adults who did not receive necessary mental health care citing financial constraints as the primary reason.

Despite these challenges, Reading offers a range of mental health resources, including crisis hotlines, non-profit organizations, and local support groups. Services like 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, ruOK? Berks, NAMI Berks County PA, and the Greater Reading Mental Health Alliance provide essential lifelines for those in distress. Additionally, national hotlines and specialized support for veterans, survivors of domestic violence, and maternal mental health concerns are available to help meet diverse needs.

Interestingly, Google search trends indicate a peak in mental health-related queries in Reading during January, suggesting that seasonal factors may contribute to increased mental health concerns. This data underscores the importance of year-round accessibility to mental health resources and proactive outreach, particularly during periods of heightened distress.

While there is still work to be done to bridge gaps in care, Reading’s network of mental health organizations and support services provides crucial assistance to those in need. By increasing awareness and improving access to care, the community can continue making strides toward better mental well-being for all.

Mental Health Resources in Reading, PA

In addition to professional care, Reading offers a range of resources for those in need of mental health support. These include emergency services, local helplines, non-profit organizations, and support groups that provide assistance outside of traditional clinical settings. Whether you’re seeking immediate help or long-term support, the following resources can guide you to the care you seek in Reading.

Emergency Services 

• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call 7-1-1 for TTY users or text 9-8-8
• Crisis Text Line: Text 741741 (Available 24/7)
• Veterans Crisis Line: Call 9-8-8 and press 1, or text 838255
• Holcomb Behavioral Health Systems Crisis line: 888-219-3910 or 610-379-2007
• National Youth Crisis Hotline: (800) 442-HOPE (4673)

Not-for-profits

• The JED Foundation
• SAM Foundation
• NAMI Berks County PA
• The Greater Reading Mental Health Alliance

Local Clinics and Hotlines 

• SAMHSA National Helpline: Call 800-662-HELP (800-662-4357)
• National Maternal Mental Health Hotline: Text or Call 833-TLC-MAMA (833-852-6262)
• National Domestic Violence Hotline: Call 800-799-SAFE (800-799-7233) or Text “LOVEIS” to 22522 or call 866-331-9474 or 800-787-3224 for TTY users
• Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline: Text or Call 800-4-A-Child (800-422-4453)
• National Sexual Assault Hotline: Call 800-656-HOPE (800-656-4673) or chat here
• ruOK? Berks: Text ruOK to 484-816-7865.

Support Groups 

• NAMI Berks County PA Support Groups
• GriefShare Support Groups in Reading PA

Mental Health Statistics in Reading, PA

Mental health is a significant concern in Reading, with many residents affected by various mental health conditions. While services are available, gaps in access to care remain. Below, we highlight key statistics that illustrate the mental health landscape in Reading, including prevalence rates, common issues, and local service usage.

• “Reading had an estimated 20.3% of adults report ≥14 days of poor mental health in the past 30 days.”¹
• For every mental health provider in Berks County PA, there are 603 patients per year.²
• 12.3% of adults in Reading, PA are uninsured.²
• “32.8% of adults in Pennsylvania reported symptoms of anxiety and/or depressive disorder.”³
• “39.8% of adults in Pennsylvania reported symptoms of anxiety or depression, and 25.7% were unable to get needed counseling or therapy.”⁴
• Of all of the “adults in Pennsylvania who did not receive needed mental health care” in 2021, 32.7% reported it was due to cost.⁴
• According to Google, search trends around mental health issues in Reading, PA tend to peak around January.⁵