Closing The Gap: New Study Explores Barriers To Mental Health Care In Chicago

How You’re Doing: The Pandemic’s Impact On Mental Health
Medical worker Margaret Watkins embraces co-worker Shelly Burke as part of their morning therapy, a family check in. (JOSEPH PREZIOSO/AFP via Getty Images)
How You’re Doing: The Pandemic’s Impact On Mental Health
Medical worker Margaret Watkins embraces co-worker Shelly Burke as part of their morning therapy, a family check in. (JOSEPH PREZIOSO/AFP via Getty Images)

Closing The Gap: New Study Explores Barriers To Mental Health Care In Chicago

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After a year of social isolation, record job losses, and more than half a million deaths in the U.S. alone, experts say the COVID-19 pandemic may lead to a national mental health crisis.

For our ongoing series Closing the Gap, Reset explores disparities in mental health care, how the pandemic is impacting our bodies and minds and what resources are available in the Chicago region. We’ll also introduce you to individuals and organizations working to uplift residents during this difficult time.

In this interview, Arturo Carrillo of the Collaborative for Community Wellness breaks down his new research on Chicago’s mental health needs and the biggest barriers to care.

GUEST: Arturo Carillo, director of health and violence prevention at the Brighton Park Neighborhood Council; leader of the Collaborative for Community Wellness