Use of Telemental Health Services during the COVID-19 Pandemic

Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, telemental health evolved into the standard of care in the mental health field. With eased restrictions on provision and reimbursement for telemental health services, the rates of use increased substantially, and current evidence supports benefits for this type of mental health service provision. With dramatic increases in depression, suicidality, anxiety, and substance use since the onset of the pandemic, the need for consistent and reliable mental health services during the pandemic is essential. In addition, individuals with chronic illness and disability experience mental health disorders at higher rates than individuals without disabilities, and this disparity is magnified during the current pandemic, which intensifies the need of telemental health services during the COVID-19 crisis. Increased need and use also highlights the importance of accessibility to telemental health services for all individuals with disabilities. While accessibility requirements have existed for many years, mental health professionals using telehealth services for the first time will need to ensure their provision of telemental health services adheres to necessary requirements.