Food and Nutrition Insecurity: A Social Determinant Hungry for Attention by Mental Health Professionals.

Food and nutrition security-healthy food being available and households being able to access and use it-is necessary for mental and overall health but is a neglected social determinant of mental health. Mental health professionals should address food and nutrition insecurity by weighing in on federal and state legislation and policies related to food and nutrition; promoting food banks and pantries, "food is medicine" initiatives, and programs offering better opportunities to afford and access whole foods and fresh produce; and addressing food and nutrition insecurity at the individual level in the clinical setting through screening, assessment, treatment, and follow-up.