20-05-2025
Growing need for mental health resources in Texas schools
MIDLAND, Texas (KMID/KPEJ) – The Texas Hospital Association shared that in 2023 more than 1.2 million Texas children under 18 years report having at least one mental, emotional, developmental, or behavioral problem (MEDB).
That is equivalent to 17.2% of all Texans under 18 affected by a MEDB problem, or roughly 1-in-5 of all Texas youth.
Schools can be a lifeline to supporting students during a mental health crisis. The children who are most impacted are Hispanic and Black, according to Texas Hospital Association data.
Children who experienced adverse experiences are more at risk for mental health difficulties.
Kristin Madrid, a mental health specialist with PermiaCare, said the need for mental health services in schools is growing rapidly.
'Anger outbursts is what we see a lot where they're going into crisis very quickly mostly because parents don't know what to do in that moment,' Madrid said.
Many times cost of medical insurance or lack of mental health coverage impact child's or family's ability to receive proper mental health resources.
The Texas 2036's 'Who Are the Uninsured?' study found, 34% of uninsured individuals postponed obtaining mental health care support, and 37% postponed mental health care support for their children.
Schools across the Basin are doing what they can to meet the growing need.
'There are options that are offered on campus as well as community partners where we can submit a referral for students to be seen outside of school,' said Taylor Harris, the Midland Independent School District. 'On campus we partner with Communities in Schools or CIS, as well as Texas Tech Tea Chat Program.'
For mental health resources in the Basin visit:
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