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Access to Mental Health Services

Written by \"\"Megan Eileen McDonoughMedically reviewed by \"\"Holly Schiff, Psy.D.

Published on · Updated on

With mental health conditions on the rise in the United States and around the world, access to care is more important than ever. Experiences with these conditions can differ significantly, and the type of support someone needs often depends on their personal situation.

While many people still go without treatment, often for reasons beyond their control, there is growing awareness of how valuable mental health support can be.

\"A

Key takeaways

  • Cost, provider shortages, geography, stigma, and administrative complexity can prevent access to mental health care.
  • Telehealth, school services, and workplace assistance programs can expand support, although technology and privacy barriers remain.
  • Culturally responsive care, affordable coverage, and language access are important for reducing disparities among underserved communities.

The Current State of Mental Illness

In U.S. survey reporting, any mental illness (AMI) covers mental, behavioral, and emotional disorders across levels of severity. Serious mental illness (SMI) is a subset involving substantial interference with major life activities; it is not a separate, non-overlapping category[1].

Conditions such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or major depression may cause serious impairment. The impact on a person’s daily functioning matters, rather than the diagnostic label alone[1].

NIMH’s figures for 2022 estimate that 59.3 million U.S. adults had AMI, and 50.6% received mental health treatment during that year[1].

In those 2022 estimates, treatment was reported by 56.9% of women with AMI and 41.6% of men. These are population estimates, not predictions about an individual’s needs or care[1].

Subject matter expert

\"\"

Carlos Protzel Psy.D.

Integrative mental health care

View experience

Barriers to Accessing Mental Health Care

While some people actively choose not to seek treatment for their mental illnesses, treatment is not always available to them due to several barriers.

Common barriers to mental health services in the United States include: 

    \n
  • Financial constraints
    • \n
  • Healthcare provider shortages
    • \n
  • Living far away from care
    • \n
  • Fear or shame around mental health 
    • \n
  • Confusing healthcare rules and paperwork
    • \n
  • Lack of internet or technological skills 
    • \n

Cost and insurance gaps can make mental health care difficult to obtain in the United States. HRSA identifies out-of-pocket expenses, coverage limitations, and ability to pay as barriers to treatment⁠[2].

Even when they do, high deductibles, costly co-pays, and out-of-network fees can make treatment unaffordable. Adding financial stress to an already challenging situation can feel overwhelming for many people. 

Provider availability also limits access. HRSA reported that 40% of the U.S. population lived in a designated mental health professional shortage area in December 2025. Rural communities face particular gaps, and uneven distribution of services can delay care⁠[2].

People in rural or remote areas often need to travel long distances to receive care, assuming they can access transportation. Without reliable options, consistent in-person support may feel out of reach. 

Stigma and cultural barriers can further prevent people from seeking help. In many communities, mental health problems are a sign of weakness and a source of shame. Fears of judgment, misunderstanding, or rejection, especially related to race, religion, gender identity, or immigration status, can make it even harder to ask for support⁠[3].

Even when someone is ready to seek help, the system is hard to navigate. Insurance requirements, confusing eligibility rules, delays in paperwork, and miscommunications between providers and insurers often create frustrating roadblocks. 

While telehealth has expanded access in recent years, it is not an option for everyone. Those without reliable internet access or digital literacy may have difficulty using virtual care⁠[4]. This can be especially true for older adults, people with disabilities, or those in lower-income households. 

The Rise in Telehealth Improves Access

The COVID-19 pandemic significantly accelerated the adoption of telehealth services, especially in mental health care.

When in-person therapy sessions were no longer possible at the start of the pandemic, many practitioners and patients quickly embraced virtual sessions. Video calls became the primary means of connection, offering a safe space for patients to speak face-to-face with their doctors and therapists.

Telehealth helped remove several barriers to care. It made treatment more accessible for people living far from providers. It also reduced the stigma for those who felt shy or hesitant about visiting a therapist’s office in person. The virtual format often felt more discreet and private for many patients⁠[4].

However, telehealth has its limitations. Not everyone has reliable internet or the right devices, which tends to be less of an issue for younger people but can be a significant challenge for older adults and those with lower incomes.

While telehealth solved some privacy concerns, it also introduced new ones, such as data security risks. Additionally, some patients may not have a quiet, private space at home for virtual sessions and may worry about being overheard.

Policy changes during the pandemic helped support the growth of telehealth. Many insurers expanded coverage to include virtual visits, and regulations around cross-state provider licensing were relaxed. These shifts have generally been positive, allowing more people to access care regardless of location.

Access to Mental Health Care at School

Schools play a vital role in providing mental health support for children and teenagers, especially since many mental health conditions first appear during these pivotal developmental years. However, many schools face challenges, including a shortage of mental health professionals.

Although the American School Counselor Association recommends a ratio of one counselor for every 250 students, the actual ratio is often much higher. Some schools have one counselor for every 400 students or more⁠[5]. This shortage frequently leads to staff overwhelm and burnout, and students not receiving the care they need.

On a more positive note, some schools are working to bring mental health services into the educational environment. This can include on-site therapy and support groups.

Many schools are also taking a proactive approach to handling extreme emergencies such as suicidal ideation or traumatic events. These systems create a safer environment for both students and faculty⁠[6].

Workplace Employee Assistance Programs

In recent years, mental health has become an increasingly recognized part of overall employee happiness and well-being. Many employers offer programs to support mental wellness, such as Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) that provide counseling and access to other resources.

These are typically free, confidential services available for short-term therapy or guidance. Some companies also offer therapy reimbursement as part of their employee benefits.

That said, sometimes a toxic work environment or the stress of working for a difficult manager can contribute to mental health difficulties. Building a workplace culture that encourages flexible working hours to accommodate therapy sessions, along with managers who value and normalize discussions about mental health, is essential⁠[7].

Another critical factor is that not all healthcare coverage plans offer comprehensive mental health services. Employers can select plans that provide mental health benefits comparable to other medical coverage, ensuring employees don’t have to worry about paying for sessions out of pocket or budgeting for co-pays.

Creating More Inclusive Access

While mental health is becoming less stigmatized and telehealth has made treatment more accessible, significant disparities still affect marginalized and underserved groups.

Research shows that people from Black, Indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC) communities often face greater obstacles in accessing mental health care. Provider bias is a common barrier that can lead to misdiagnosis or a lack of understanding of their unique experiences⁠[3].

Marginalized groups also frequently have a higher need for mental health services. For example, members of LGBTQ+ communities experience higher rates of depression, anxiety, and trauma due to discrimination and social stigma. Transgender people, in particular, report high levels of psychological distress and often require specialized care⁠[8].

People from immigrant communities also face challenges such as language barriers and fears related to their legal status or possible deportation. These concerns frequently discourage them from seeking the treatment they need.

Creating more inclusive access to mental health care means addressing these disparities head-on. Efforts to train providers in cultural competency, expand language services, and develop affirming, trauma-informed care models are gaining momentum. By continuing to prioritize equity and inclusion, the mental health system can become more responsive and accessible to everyone.

Improving Mental Health Care Access

Access to mental health services can make a world of difference in a person’s life. Yet many people still encounter barriers to care, whether financial constraints, stigma, judgment, or living in remote areas that make attending appointments difficult. 

The rise of telehealth has made mental health support more accessible than ever, allowing people to connect with providers from the comfort and privacy of their own homes. At the same time, schools and workplaces are increasingly recognizing mental health as a vital part of overall health and are working to provide more supportive environments.

Ultimately, improving access to mental health care is a shared responsibility that requires commitment from communities, employers, and policymakers. Communities can work to reduce stigma, while employers can offer comprehensive and inclusive benefits for employees. For policymakers, enacting laws that protect access and affordability is key.

References

  1. National Institute of Mental Health. (n.d.). Mental illness. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. National Institute of Mental Health. Accessed October 10 2026.
  2. Health Resources and Services Administration. (2025). State of the Behavioral Health Workforce, 2025. National Center for Health Workforce Analysis. bhw.hrsa.gov. Accessed October 10 2026.
  3. Racine, N., McArthur, B. A., Cooke, J. E., Eirich, R., Zhu, J., & Madigan, S. (2022). Global prevalence of depressive and anxiety symptoms in children and adolescents during COVID-19: A meta-analysis. JAMA Pediatrics, 176(11), 1142–1150. JAMA Network. Accessed October 10 2026.
  4. American School Counselor Association. (n.d.). School counselor roles & ratios. schoolcounselor.org. Accessed October 10 2026.
  5. Ringeisen, H., Miller, S., Munoz, B., Rohloff, H., Hedden, S. L., & Colpe, L. J. (2016). Mental health service use in adolescence: Findings from the national survey on drug use and health. Psychiatric Services, 67(7), 787–789. PsychiatryOnline.
  6. Samji, H., Wu, J., Ladak, A., Vossen, C., Stewart, E., Dove, N., Long, D., & Snell, G. (2021). Mental health impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on children and youth – A systematic review. Child and Adolescent Mental Health, 26(4), 175–185. Wiley. Accessed October 10 2026.
  7. Perou, R., Bitsko, R. H., Blumberg, S. J., Pastor, P., Ghandour, R. M., Gfroerer, J. C., Hedden, S. L., Crosby, A. E., Visser, S. N., Schieve, L. A., Parks, S. E., Hall, J. E., Brody, D., Simile, C. M., Thompson, W. W., Baio, J., Avenevoli, S., Kogan, M. D., Huang, L. N., & Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2013). Mental health surveillance among children--United States, 2005-2011. MMWR Supplements, 62(2), 1–35. PubMed.

Medical Content

The Clinical Affairs Team at MentalHealth.com is a dedicated group of medical professionals with diverse and extensive clinical experience. They actively contribute to the development of content, products, and services, and meticulously review all medical material before publication to ensure accuracy and alignment with current research and conversations in mental health. For more information, please visit the Editorial Policy.

About MentalHealth.com

MentalHealth.com helps people understand themselves, build healthier relationships, and access the right care. We bring together mental health education, diagnostics, and care management to support well-being throughout every phase of life.

\"\"

Author

Megan Eileen McDonough

BSc, BA

Megan Eileen McDonough is a health and wellness writer with 10+ years of experience in mental health, women’s health, postpartum care, and adolescent health.

Published
Updated
\"\"

Medical Reviewer

Holly Schiff, Psy.D.

Psy.D.

Holly Schiff, Psy.D., is a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in the treatment of children, young adults, and their families.

Reviewed
\"People

Related community

Social Determinants

Explore how living conditions, access, and opportunity shape mental health experiences.

Explore community
","text":"Home Library Social Determinants Access to Mental Health Services Access to Mental Health Services Written by Megan Eileen McDonoughMedically reviewed by Holly Schiff, Psy.D. Published on August 8, 2025 · Updated on October 9, 2026 With mental health conditions on the rise in the United States and around the world, access to care is more important than ever. Experiences with these conditions can differ significantly, and the type of support someone needs often depends on their personal situation. While many people still go without treatment, often for reasons beyond their control, there is growing awareness of how valuable mental health support can be. Key takeaways Cost, provider shortages, geography, stigma, and administrative complexity can prevent access to mental health care. Telehealth, school services, and workplace assistance programs can expand support, although technology and privacy barriers remain. Culturally responsive care, affordable coverage, and language access are important for reducing disparities among underserved communities. The Current State of Mental Illness In U.S. survey reporting, any mental illness (AMI) covers mental, behavioral, and emotional disorders across levels of severity. Serious mental illness (SMI) is a subset involving substantial interference with major life activities; it is not a separate, non-overlapping category[1]. Conditions such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or major depression may cause serious impairment. The impact on a person’s daily functioning matters, rather than the diagnostic label alone[1]. NIMH’s figures for 2022 estimate that 59.3 million U.S. adults had AMI, and 50.6% received mental health treatment during that year[1]. In those 2022 estimates, treatment was reported by 56.9% of women with AMI and 41.6% of men. These are population estimates, not predictions about an individual’s needs or care[1]. Subject matter expert Carlos Protzel Psy.D. Integrative mental health care View experience Barriers to Accessing Mental Health Care While some people actively choose not to seek treatment for their mental illnesses, treatment is not always available to them due to several barriers. Common barriers to mental health services in the United States include: Financial constraints Healthcare provider shortages Living far away from care Fear or shame around mental health Confusing healthcare rules and paperwork Lack of internet or technological skills Cost and insurance gaps can make mental health care difficult to obtain in the United States. HRSA identifies out-of-pocket expenses, coverage limitations, and ability to pay as barriers to treatment⁠[2]. Even when they do, high deductibles, costly co-pays, and out-of-network fees can make treatment unaffordable. Adding financial stress to an already challenging situation can feel overwhelming for many people. Provider availability also limits access. HRSA reported that 40% of the U.S. population lived in a designated mental health professional shortage area in December 2025. Rural communities face particular gaps, and uneven distribution of services can delay care⁠[2]. People in rural or remote areas often need to travel long distances to receive care, assuming they can access transportation. Without reliable options, consistent in-person support may feel out of reach. Stigma and cultural barriers can further prevent people from seeking help. In many communities, mental health problems are a sign of weakness and a source of shame. Fears of judgment, misunderstanding, or rejection, especially related to race, religion, gender identity, or immigration status, can make it even harder to ask for support⁠[3]. Even when someone is ready to seek help, the system is hard to navigate. Insurance requirements, confusing eligibility rules, delays in paperwork, and miscommunications between providers and insurers often create frustrating roadblocks. While telehealth has expanded access in recent years, it is not an option for everyone. Those without reliable internet access or digital literacy may have difficulty using virtual care⁠[4]. This can be especially true for older adults, people with disabilities, or those in lower-income households. The Rise in Telehealth Improves Access The COVID-19 pandemic significantly accelerated the adoption of telehealth services, especially in mental health care. When in-person therapy sessions were no longer possible at the start of the pandemic, many practitioners and patients quickly embraced virtual sessions. Video calls became the primary means of connection, offering a safe space for patients to speak face-to-face with their doctors and therapists. Telehealth helped remove several barriers to care. It made treatment more accessible for people living far from providers. It also reduced the stigma for those who felt shy or hesitant about visiting a therapist’s office in person. The virtual format often felt more discreet and private for many patients⁠[4]. However, telehealth has its limitations. Not everyone has reliable internet or the right devices, which tends to be less of an issue for younger people but can be a significant challenge for older adults and those with lower incomes. While telehealth solved some privacy concerns, it also introduced new ones, such as data security risks. Additionally, some patients may not have a quiet, private space at home for virtual sessions and may worry about being overheard. Policy changes during the pandemic helped support the growth of telehealth. Many insurers expanded coverage to include virtual visits, and regulations around cross-state provider licensing were relaxed. These shifts have generally been positive, allowing more people to access care regardless of location. Find support that fits you Explore people and care options near you. Find careAccess to Mental Health Care at School Schools play a vital role in providing mental health support for children and teenagers, especially since many mental health conditions first appear during these pivotal developmental years. However, many schools face challenges, including a shortage of mental health professionals. Although the American School Counselor Association recommends a ratio of one counselor for every 250 students, the actual ratio is often much higher. Some schools have one counselor for every 400 students or more⁠[5]. This shortage frequently leads to staff overwhelm and burnout, and students not receiving the care they need. On a more positive note, some schools are working to bring mental health services into the educational environment. This can include on-site therapy and support groups. Many schools are also taking a proactive approach to handling extreme emergencies such as suicidal ideation or traumatic events. These systems create a safer environment for both students and faculty⁠[6]. Workplace Employee Assistance Programs In recent years, mental health has become an increasingly recognized part of overall employee happiness and well-being. Many employers offer programs to support mental wellness, such as Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) that provide counseling and access to other resources. These are typically free, confidential services available for short-term therapy or guidance. Some companies also offer therapy reimbursement as part of their employee benefits. That said, sometimes a toxic work environment or the stress of working for a difficult manager can contribute to mental health difficulties. Building a workplace culture that encourages flexible working hours to accommodate therapy sessions, along with managers who value and normalize discussions about mental health, is essential⁠[7]. Another critical factor is that not all healthcare coverage plans offer comprehensive mental health services. Employers can select plans that provide mental health benefits comparable to other medical coverage, ensuring employees don’t have to worry about paying for sessions out of pocket or budgeting for co-pays. Creating More Inclusive Access While mental health is becoming less stigmatized and telehealth has made treatment more accessible, significant disparities still affect marginalized and underserved groups. Research shows that people from Black, Indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC) communities often face greater obstacles in accessing mental health care. Provider bias is a common barrier that can lead to misdiagnosis or a lack of understanding of their unique experiences⁠[3]. Marginalized groups also frequently have a higher need for mental health services. For example, members of LGBTQ+ communities experience higher rates of depression, anxiety, and trauma due to discrimination and social stigma. Transgender people, in particular, report high levels of psychological distress and often require specialized care⁠[8]. People from immigrant communities also face challenges such as language barriers and fears related to their legal status or possible deportation. These concerns frequently discourage them from seeking the treatment they need. Creating more inclusive access to mental health care means addressing these disparities head-on. Efforts to train providers in cultural competency, expand language services, and develop affirming, trauma-informed care models are gaining momentum. By continuing to prioritize equity and inclusion, the mental health system can become more responsive and accessible to everyone. Improving Mental Health Care Access Access to mental health services can make a world of difference in a person’s life. Yet many people still encounter barriers to care, whether financial constraints, stigma, judgment, or living in remote areas that make attending appointments difficult. The rise of telehealth has made mental health support more accessible than ever, allowing people to connect with providers from the comfort and privacy of their own homes. At the same time, schools and workplaces are increasingly recognizing mental health as a vital part of overall health and are working to provide more supportive environments. Ultimately, improving access to mental health care is a shared responsibility that requires commitment from communities, employers, and policymakers. Communities can work to reduce stigma, while employers can offer comprehensive and inclusive benefits for employees. For policymakers, enacting laws that protect access and affordability is key. References National Institute of Mental Health. (n.d.). Mental illness. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. National Institute of Mental Health. Accessed October 10 2026. Health Resources and Services Administration. (2025). State of the Behavioral Health Workforce, 2025. National Center for Health Workforce Analysis. bhw.hrsa.gov. Accessed October 10 2026. Mojtabai, R., Olfson, M., & Han, B. (2016). National trends in the prevalence and treatment of depression in adolescents and young adults. Pediatrics, 138(6), e20161878. publications.aap.org. Accessed October 10 2026. Racine, N., McArthur, B. A., Cooke, J. E., Eirich, R., Zhu, J., & Madigan, S. (2022). Global prevalence of depressive and anxiety symptoms in children and adolescents during COVID-19: A meta-analysis. JAMA Pediatrics, 176(11), 1142–1150. JAMA Network. Accessed October 10 2026. American School Counselor Association. (n.d.). School counselor roles & ratios. schoolcounselor.org. Accessed October 10 2026. Ringeisen, H., Miller, S., Munoz, B., Rohloff, H., Hedden, S. L., & Colpe, L. J. (2016). Mental health service use in adolescence: Findings from the national survey on drug use and health. Psychiatric Services, 67(7), 787–789. PsychiatryOnline. Samji, H., Wu, J., Ladak, A., Vossen, C., Stewart, E., Dove, N., Long, D., & Snell, G. (2021). Mental health impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on children and youth – A systematic review. Child and Adolescent Mental Health, 26(4), 175–185. Wiley. Accessed October 10 2026. Perou, R., Bitsko, R. H., Blumberg, S. J., Pastor, P., Ghandour, R. M., Gfroerer, J. C., Hedden, S. L., Crosby, A. E., Visser, S. N., Schieve, L. A., Parks, S. E., Hall, J. E., Brody, D., Simile, C. M., Thompson, W. W., Baio, J., Avenevoli, S., Kogan, M. D., Huang, L. N., & Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2013). Mental health surveillance among children--United States, 2005-2011. MMWR Supplements, 62(2), 1–35. PubMed. Medical Content The Clinical Affairs Team at MentalHealth.com is a dedicated group of medical professionals with diverse and extensive clinical experience. They actively contribute to the development of content, products, and services, and meticulously review all medical material before publication to ensure accuracy and alignment with current research and conversations in mental health. For more information, please visit the Editorial Policy. About MentalHealth.com MentalHealth.com helps people understand themselves, build healthier relationships, and access the right care. We bring together mental health education, diagnostics, and care management to support well-being throughout every phase of life. Author Megan Eileen McDonough BSc, BA Megan Eileen McDonough is a health and wellness writer with 10+ years of experience in mental health, women’s health, postpartum care, and adolescent health. Published August 8, 2025 Updated October 9, 2026 Medical Reviewer Holly Schiff, Psy.D. Psy.D. Holly Schiff, Psy.D., is a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in the treatment of children, young adults, and their families. Reviewed August 8, 2025 Related community Social Determinants Explore how living conditions, access, and opportunity shape mental health experiences. Explore community Table of contentsChoose a section The Current State of Mental Illness Barriers to Accessing Mental Health Care The Rise in Telehealth Improves Access Access to Mental Health Care at School Workplace Employee Assistance Programs Creating More Inclusive Access Improving Mental Health Care Access View more","wordCount":2025},"schema":{"@context":"https://schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"Organization","@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/#organization","name":"MentalHealth.com","url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/","publishingPrinciples":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/publishing/editorial-policy"},{"@type":"WebSite","@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/#website","url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/","name":"MentalHealth.com","inLanguage":"en-US","publisher":{"@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/#organization"}},{"@type":"BreadcrumbList","@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/access#breadcrumb","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"Home","item":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"Library","item":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":3,"name":"Social Determinants","item":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/social-determinants"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":4,"name":"Access to Mental Health Services","item":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/access"}]},{"@type":"ImageObject","@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/access#primaryimage","url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/assets/optimized/c42f818f9e9658e6b57c2ccb.webp","contentUrl":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/assets/optimized/c42f818f9e9658e6b57c2ccb.webp","width":1200,"height":800,"encodingFormat":"image/webp","caption":"A woman explains her thoughts during a counseling conversation."},{"@type":"Person","@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/megan-eileen-mcdonough#person","name":"Megan Eileen McDonough","url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/megan-eileen-mcdonough","jobTitle":"BSc, BA","image":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/assets/optimized/7297fbed04df9652a253fa2d.jpg","sameAs":["https://www.linkedin.com/in/meganeileen/"],"memberOf":[{"@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/publishing#department"}]},{"@type":"Person","@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/holly-schiff#person","name":"Holly Schiff, Psy.D.","url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/holly-schiff","jobTitle":"Psy.D.","image":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/assets/optimized/af4ecdb78008ac81cd3aa271.jpg","sameAs":["https://www.linkedin.com/in/holly-ann-schiff-psy-d-21b53821/"],"memberOf":[{"@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/clinical-affairs#department"}]},{"@type":"Article","@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/access#article","url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/access","headline":"Access to Mental Health Services","description":"Learn about the importance of mental health access, common barriers people face, and types of support offered in schools and workplaces.","wordCount":1456,"mainEntityOfPage":{"@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/access#webpage"},"publisher":{"@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/#organization"},"articleSection":"Social Determinants","citation":[{"@type":"CreativeWork","name":"National Institute of Mental Health. 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Experiences with these conditions can differ significantly, and the type of support someone needs often depends on their personal situation. \n\nWhile many people still go without treatment, often for reasons beyond their control, there is growing awareness of how valuable mental health support can be.","text":"With mental health conditions on the rise in the United States and around the world, access to care is more important than ever. Experiences with these conditions can differ significantly, and the type of support someone needs often depends on their personal situation. 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