Texas Struggles with Mental Health Care Access on Global Awareness Day

Oct. 10, designated as Global Mental Health Awareness Day, highlights Texas' ongoing challenge with mental health care access. The state ranks low in this area, according to Forbes.

A significant factor is the shortage of mental health providers, which hinders access to care. Texas has begun addressing this crisis by opposing new certification requirements to expedite the certification and recruitment of mental health professionals. However, more action is needed.

The workplace has become a critical battleground for mental health. For many, work exacerbates life and career pressures, amplifying mental health struggles, especially for women. According to a 2024 report by the Texas Conference for Women, 98% of women consider workplace health and well-being “very” or “extremely” important.

However, while 82% of the 4,385 women surveyed reported workplace health programs, 60% did not use them. Common reasons included fear of repercussions, poor quality offerings, and lack of time.

One woman stated: “Poor mental health is frequently viewed as a sign of weakness or a defect, so I'd rather not have anything about my mental health linked to something within my company.”

Another commented: “The mental health resources provided by my employer seem to be ‘because this looks good’ and not ‘because our employees matter.”

A third mentioned: “Part of the drain on my mental health has been the constant overwork and having too many responsibilities. I can barely find time some days to eat or take a break, let alone look into the services and resources offered.”

This situation is unacceptable for both women and employers. Workplace mental health programs are essential for retention, productivity, and employee well-being.

The Texas Conference for Women, part of the nation’s largest network of women’s conferences, is launching a new initiative in partnership with Paragon Performance Evolution. This free three-month well-being program, “New Year, New You!”, begins in January 2025.

The program aims to decrease stress and anxiety, improve sleep, increase mental clarity, and foster deeper interpersonal connections.

As we mark this day, Texas employers are encouraged to lead in supporting their teams to prioritize mental health statewide.

Fields is the president of the board of the Texas Conference for Women.