Houston, Texas (June 13, 2025) – The Texas Medical Association (TMA) is once again calling on state lawmakers to increase mental health resources in Texas schools, in light of the growing number of students experiencing mental health challenges. As mental health concerns among young people continue to rise, the TMA is pushing for greater investment in school-based mental health programs, specifically targeting prevention, early intervention, and ongoing support for students.
The Growing Mental Health Crisis in Texas Schools
Mental health experts have been warning about the mental health crisis affecting students in Texas for several years. According to the Texas Department of State Health Services, a staggering 40% of high school students reported experiencing symptoms of depression or anxiety during the past year, and a significant percentage of those students have never sought professional help. The problem has been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, which left many students isolated and disrupted their education.
The effects of this mental health crisis are far-reaching. Anxiety, depression, and stress are not only hindering students’ emotional well-being but are also negatively impacting their academic performance. Texas has long had some of the highest rates of high school dropouts in the nation, and mental health struggles are often at the core of these challenges.
The TMA is calling for immediate action to address these growing concerns by expanding mental health services in schools. According to Dr. Mary Jenkins, president of the TMA, “Texas students are suffering, and without proper resources, many of them will fall through the cracks. Schools are often the first place where students show signs of mental distress, but we are not doing enough to support them. We must take action now to prevent further harm and give our students the resources they need.”
Proposed Measures for Mental Health Services
In response to the growing concern, the Texas Medical Association is proposing several legislative measures to improve access to mental health services in schools. The first and most critical step is increasing the number of mental health professionals, including school counselors, psychologists, and social workers, in Texas schools.
Currently, many Texas schools are severely understaffed when it comes to mental health professionals. The American School Counselor Association recommends a ratio of one counselor for every 250 students, but in Texas, some districts have a counselor-to-student ratio of 1:1,000 or more. The TMA is advocating for state funding to help districts hire more counselors and provide them with the tools they need to support students.
Additionally, the TMA is calling for the integration of mental health education into the school curriculum. Students often struggle to recognize the early signs of mental health issues, and teaching them how to manage their emotions, stress, and anxiety could help reduce the stigma surrounding mental health issues. Furthermore, teachers and school staff need proper training to recognize the signs of mental distress and refer students to appropriate resources.
The TMA is also advocating for better coordination between schools and local mental health providers. The goal is to create a seamless network of support so that students can access mental health services when needed, whether it be through on-campus services or community-based providers.
The Impact of Mental Health on Academic Success
The evidence is clear: mental health problems affect students’ ability to perform academically. Studies have shown that students experiencing mental health challenges are more likely to have difficulty concentrating, suffer from low motivation, and experience absenteeism. Moreover, these students are at an increased risk of dropping out of school or facing disciplinary actions.
Mental health experts have found that when students receive the appropriate mental health care, their academic performance improves significantly. Schools that implement comprehensive mental health programs have seen reductions in absenteeism, suspensions, and overall behavioral problems. In turn, students’ grades and engagement with school have improved.
“We are not just advocating for students’ emotional well-being; we are advocating for their academic success,” said Dr. Jenkins. “Mental health support is essential not only for preventing crises but for ensuring that all students can succeed in school and in life.”
The Role of the Community and Government
While the TMA is pushing for action from the state legislature, they are also calling on communities, businesses, and other organizations to get involved in supporting mental health initiatives. Texas has a large number of nonprofit organizations that focus on mental health, but many of them struggle with funding and resources. By working together, the TMA believes that schools, mental health providers, and local organizations can create a stronger support system for students.
The Texas Medical Association has also stressed the importance of ensuring that funding for mental health services is prioritized in the state budget. Governor Greg Abbott has indicated that he will be working with lawmakers to address the issue of mental health funding, but advocates like the TMA want to see more concrete action.
“Addressing the mental health crisis in our schools will require a commitment from everyone involved: lawmakers, school districts, parents, and the community at large,” said Dr. Jenkins. “We cannot wait any longer. Our students need help now.”
Mental Health Initiatives Across Texas
Some Texas school districts have already begun taking steps to address mental health, but the TMA argues that these efforts must be expanded and standardized across the state. A number of districts have implemented successful programs that provide counseling, social-emotional learning, and peer support networks, but there is still a long way to go.
In Austin, the school district has introduced a series of “mindfulness” programs designed to help students manage stress and anxiety. These programs teach students coping techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, and other relaxation strategies. Similarly, in Dallas, the district has partnered with local mental health organizations to provide on-campus therapy services.
Despite these positive steps, the TMA stresses that it is critical to address mental health issues at the systemic level, ensuring that every student in Texas has access to the care they need, regardless of their socioeconomic background.
Looking Ahead: The Need for Immediate Action
As Texas continues to grow, the state’s educational system must evolve to meet the needs of its diverse and rapidly changing student population. Mental health must be a central part of that evolution. The TMA’s call to action is clear: Texas must invest in its children’s well-being to ensure their academic success and future happiness.
The issue of mental health in schools is not just a healthcare concern—it’s an economic and social imperative. By providing mental health services, Texas can ensure that its students are not only prepared for academic success but also equipped with the emotional resilience they need to navigate the challenges of life.
Conclusion
The Texas Medical Association’s advocacy for expanded mental health resources in schools is a crucial step toward addressing the ongoing mental health crisis affecting students across the state. With increased funding, support, and training, Texas schools can provide the essential care that students need to thrive. The time to act is now, and the future of Texas’s students depends on it.
