This report covers two similar markets, each of which has some distinct characteristics. The first market is Mental Health and Substance Abuse services. The second is Mental Disability services. We have chosen to incorporate both in this research piece due to their similarities, and because firms frequently compete in both areas. In both markets, there is high participation by government and non-profit service providers.
The mental health and substance abuse industry is growing in response to both an increased awareness of the diseases, along with a growing de-stigmatization of treatment. It is estimated that in 2010 the industry will generate roughly $11.9 billion in revenue, which will be a 6.4% increase over 2009. Over the next five years, industry revenue is forecasted to grow by 4.1% annually with revenue in 2015 projected between $14.0 and $15.0 billion.
Mental health and substance abuse treatment services are delivered in a variety of settings. Residential care is around-the-clock care to patients living in the facility. These facilities can also include group homes (or halfway houses) and centers for the rehabilitation of substance abusers, which can include the supply of methadone for reducing opiate dependency. Outpatient facilities deliver similar services, but treatment is less intensive, or is primarily directed toward follow up care and reinforcement. The most common illnesses treated are alcohol, cocaine and marijuana abuse, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, phobias, schizophrenia, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and bipolar disorders. Dementia can fall into this category, but is generally not included in the scope of this report.
The mental disability services industry comprises group homes, hospitals, and outpatient care facilities for the mentally handicapped and for patients with autism spectrum disorders. The mental retardation component of this market alone is estimated to generate $20.2 billion of revenue annually, and is expected to grow 3% annually.