California Department of Mental Health

Right Column

These mental illness prevalence estimates were provided through a contract with Charles Holzer, Ph.D., of the University of Texas, Medical Branch. When considering these prevalence rates, it is important to remember that the prevalence rates are based on estimates that were calculated by applying prediction weights, developed from previous nationally prominent survey studies, to California county population demographics. Thus the rates should be understood as reasonable estimates of serious mental illness prevalence rates, rather than counts of actual individuals. For those who wish to read analytical details of Dr. Holzer’s estimation methodology, links are provided to his website.

Simple prevalence rates, broken down by age, or gender, or race/ethnicity, or poverty level for a particular county can be accessed by clicking on the name of the county, listed in the left hand column of the Total Population table.

If you have questions about these tables, please contact the Data Management and Analysis Section (916) 653-6257.

Detailed Prevalence Rates (Updated in October 2009):

Series P5 Estimates of Need for California
Group
Total Population SMI