A method for estimating the chronic mentally ill population in state and local areas.

A practical method for estimating the size of the noninstitutionalized chronic mentally ill population in state and local areas, including those not currently receiving services, has been developed. The method relies on national and state counts by zip code area of persons receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) because of mental illness, and on full or sample counts by SSI and SSDI status of chronic mentally ill persons in publicly funded community mental health programs.