Texas: Arm Women, Not Mandates!

Texas: A Mental Health Train Wreck, But We’re Fixing It—Sort Of

Alright, folks. Buckle up because today is Global Mental Health Awareness Day, and Texas is still riding low in the rankings when it comes to mental health care. Thanks a lot, Forbes.

Seriously, the biggest problem here is we don’t have enough mental health providers. It’s like trying to find a unicorn at the rodeo—nearly impossible if you really need one.

But hold your horses! Texas isn’t just sitting back and watching the outhouse burn. We’re fighting those pesky new certification requirements so we can get more mental health professionals certified faster. It’s a start, but let’s be real, we need a lot more help.

Now, let’s talk about the workplace. It’s where life meets career and all hell breaks loose. Especially for the ladies. According to a 2024 report by Texas Conference for Women, a whopping 98% of women say mental health in the workplace is crucial.

But here’s the kicker: 60% of those surveyed don’t even use the mental health programs at work. Why? They’re scared of backlash, think the programs are junk, or don’t have the time.

“Poor mental health is like having a busted tractor. No one wants to talk about it.”

“Our employer’s mental health resources? It’s like serving up burnt BBQ to impress the boss, not because they care.”

“Between working like a dog and having more chores than a one-armed farmer at harvest, ain’t nobody got time for mental health services.”

This junk show is bad for everyone—employees and employers alike. Let’s put it straight: if you’re a boss, supporting mental health is good for your bottom line. And it’s the right thing to do, so don’t act like you’re shocked.

Good news! The Texas Conference for Women (part of America’s biggest women’s conference network) is rolling out a new program in partnership with Paragon Performance Evolution. It’s called “New Year, New You!” and it’s free for three months, starting January 2025.

We’ll be offering stuff that really helps—stress-busting techniques, better sleep tips, and mental clarity boosters. We know what y’all need, ladies.

But this isn’t just our show. As we celebrate Mental Health Awareness Day, let’s urge Texas employers to step up and support their teams. Together, we can make Texas a place where mental health is a priority for everyone.

Like we always say, when women thrive, Texas thrives. Boom. Done.

Fields is the president of the board of the Texas Conference for Women , dedicated to making women shine at work and beyond.