In the State of Texas students are facing a mental health crisis. With the lack of mental health support in schools, students have found it harder to receive mental health services. The lack of school counselors, social workers and school psychologists, families have found it more challenging to learn about students’ wellbeing before it takes a drastic change.

Youth in Texas have suicide attempt rates 66% higher than the national average, yet the state ranks last in access to mental health care. In 2020, 75% of youth with major depression received no treatment. Many students go without the support they desperately need due to limited resources, a shortage of school counselors and social workers, and stigma around seeking help.

In our schools, this crisis shows up as larger class sizes, too few counselors, and minority and low-income families struggling to access support. Academic success and emotional well-being are deeply connected — but without proper resources, students are at risk of falling behind.

We are urging Texas Leaders to increase the funding for Mental Health services at Texas schools. If leaders provided funding for the expanding of Mental Health services such as school psychologists, school counselors, and social workers can help ensure that every student in need receives support in a timely and effective manner. In addition, implementing mental health services in the student’s curriculum will help grow the students’ knowledge to eventually manage their mental health well-being.

Our Key Proposals:

1. Hire more school counselors, licensed social workers, and mental health professionals so Texas meets the nationally recommended ratio of 250 students per counselor (right now, Texas averages nearly 400:1).
2.  Implement school-wide mental health education and stigma reduction programs so students, families, and staff feel safe talking about mental health and know how to seek help.

Why This Matters:

Schools are the primary place where children and teens can access care. Integrating mental health support into schools improves academic performance, reduces stigma, and ensures that students get the help they need when they need it.

Call to Action:

By signing this petition, you are urging Texas legislators, school boards, and education leaders to make student mental health a top priority. Together, we can create safe, inclusive schools where every child could thrive — academically, socially, and emotionally.