Hunger, untreated chronic health conditions, maltreatment, social exclusion and discrimination, and displacement from war or conflict increase susceptibility to mental health and substance abuse disorders. Depression and anxiety, caused by the aforementioned, cost the global economy $1 trillion a year in lost productivity as well.

More specifically, childhood poverty causes lower school achievement; worse cognitive and related acuteness; and higher rates of delinquency, anxiety, and depression, leading to higher rates of psychiatric disorders later in adulthood. Addressing these disorders as they arise can help spur economic achievement later in life, and break the relationship between poverty and poor mental health. 

Investments in mental health programs, particularly those focused on the wellbeing of children, can help those with mental health disorders who do not have access to such care. Urge your Congressional representatives to support the MINDS Act which addresses mental health and psychosocial support through American global development assistance, ultimately, helping to break the cycle of poverty.