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

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

At Thriveworks Reading, we are committed to expanding access to quality mental health services in Reading, and that means understanding the local landscape. Our team regularly reviews the latest local mental health research, governmental reports, and our own data to uncover trends, community needs, and all available resources.

Below, you’ll find a comprehensive guide to mental health in Reading and how to access care.

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 

Not-for-profits

Local Clinics and Hotlines 

Support Groups 

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
  • Writer
  • 5 sources
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Thriveworks, clinician-founded and -led, is a leading mental health provider of therapy and psychiatry. We offer in-person and online care, with 340+ offices and 2,200+ clinicians across the US.

We only use authoritative, trusted, and current sources in our articles. Read our editorial policy to learn more about our efforts to deliver factual, trustworthy information.

  • City Health Dashboard. (2025). City Overview for Reading, PA. https://www.cityhealthdashboard.com/PA/Reading/city-overview

  • Reading, PA | Data USA. (n.d.). Data USA. https://datausa.io/profile/geo/reading-pa/?provider-clinician_patient_ratio=provider3

  • Mental Health and Substance Use State Fact Sheets | KFF. (2023c, March 20). KFF. https://www.kff.org/statedata/mental-health-and-substance-use-state-fact-sheets/pennsylvania/

  • NAMI Keystone Pennsylvania. (2021). Mental health in Pennsylvania. https://www.nami.org/NAMI/media/NAMI-Media/StateFactSheets/PennsylvaniaStateFactSheet.pdf

  • Using google search trend data, we were able to find the following data based on a core set of three thousand keywords

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Disclaimer

The information on this page is not intended to replace assistance, diagnosis, or treatment from a clinical or medical professional. Readers are urged to seek professional help if they are struggling with a mental health condition or another health concern.

If you’re in a crisis, do not use this site. Please call the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 or use these resources to get immediate help.

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