Financial Anxiety And Cost Hurdles Are Top Barriers To Mental Health Care, Survey Finds

As economic pressures mount, many Americans report that cost and access remain the biggest obstacles when seeking mental health care.

According to a new survey of 2,000 Americans conducted by Talker Research on behalf of Doctor On Demand by Included Health, seven in 10 Americans say their financial anxiety is at an all-time high, with 76% feeling alone in their efforts to manage money-related stress.

This financial burden is taking a toll on mental health nationwide. One in five respondents said their mental health has worsened over the past year, while 40% have taken a mental health day from work or school. The link between mental and physical health is also clear: 41% of people reported chronic physical pain, and 70% believe their mental well-being is directly tied to their physical health.

Affordability remains the leading barrier to accessing professional care. Nearly one-third of those surveyed (33%) said the cost of healthcare has directly affected their mental health. Meanwhile, 29% cited cost as the primary reason they have not sought mental health services.

Younger generations are particularly impacted. Forty percent of millennials and 37% of Gen Z respondents said healthcare costs have taken a toll on their mental well-being.

“Americans arent just recognizing the importance of mental health — they’re actively reshaping their daily habits around it,” said Dana Udall, Ph.D, vice president of behavioral health at Included Health. “Were seeing more people realize how deeply connected mental and physical health truly are. Even factors like our financial health really have a significant impact. Thats why its more important than ever to expand access to high-quality, affordable care that treats the whole person as lasting well-being depends on supporting all aspects of health, together.” 

While awareness has grown, access remains limited. Only 14% of those surveyed are currently in therapy or counseling. Another 25% have tried therapy and would consider it again, while 27% are interested in trying it for the first time.

Beyond cost, other challenges include difficulty finding the right provider (10%) and lack of time (7%).

In the absence of professional support, many Americans are turning to everyday habits to prioritize their mental health. Seventy percent said they actively focus on their well-being through activities like listening to music (65%), returning to old hobbies (51%), getting enough sleep (48%), exercising (48%), and spending time in person with loved ones (46%).

Seventy-one percent of respondents said they use weekly physical activity to manage stress, and 61% said they speak openly with friends and family about their mental health.

“Its encouraging to see people turn to music, hobbies, rest and connection to support their mental health,” said Ami Parekh, M.D., J.D., chief health officer at Included Health. “These habits reflect a natural understanding that mental and physical health are deeply intertwined. When care supports the whole person in one place, not only do outcomes improve — but costs go down. Its a smarter, more sustainable way to care for people, especially in a time of rising financial anxiety.”