On World Mental Health Day, we highlight the impact of mental health in North Texas and emphasize the importance of connection and community in fostering community resilience
Share article
World Mental Health Day
World Mental Health Day, first observed on October 10th, 1992, was created as an initiative to promote global awareness of mental health challenges and to spark open conversations that reduce the stigma which still surrounds mental health today. This year's World Mental Health Day theme is “Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies”. Over the past year, the world has faced many natural disasters, wars, and large-scale crises. Texas has not escaped the impact of devastating events with the Hill Country floods, destructive wildfires in the Panhandle, landfall of Hurricane Beryl, and multiple tragic incidents of community violence. Even after the immediate crisis is “over”, their impact on our collective sense of safety and well-being continues to be felt throughout our communities.
In the aftermath of a crisis, people often cope in many different ways. Some may avoid the overwhelming emotions and memories attached to the crisis. While this can be helpful in the short term, long term avoidance can increase stress and contribute to both physical and mental health concerns. For some, that avoidance takes the form of substance use. According to Baylor Scott & White’s 2025 Community Health Needs Assessment, 17% of adults in North Texas report binge drinking, although the real number may be higher due to how often substance use is underreported. The same report notes a drug overdose mortality rate of 18/2 deaths per 100,000 residents from 2018-2022. Substance use may offer escape, but comes with serious risks.
Mental health struggles are also widespread. The 2025 report found that 20% of adults in our region experience depression, and 16% report two or more weeks of poor mental health in a given month. Southeast Tarrant County shows a higher suicide rate among youth ages 5-17 compared to the state average. These numbers aren’t just statistics, but real members of our community who carry heavy burdens. When crises strike, the weight only grows heavier.
While these numbers can be startling, they also show that no one faces these challenges alone. If you’re struggling, so are many of your neighbors. Connection itself can feel protective. When we share experiences, talk openly, and support one another, we strengthen our sense of belonging and rebuild safety after difficult community events. Small actions like asking a neighbor how they’re doing, volunteering for a local organization that’s meaningful to you, or reaching out to a friend can ripple outward, creating meaningful community change.
On this World Mental Health Day, we encourage you to take a step towards connection to help endure difficult circumstances. And if you find yourself stuck in cycles of avoidance or self-medicating, Luxx Therapy can help. Licensed professionals can help provide spaces to process difficult experiences, develop coping strategies, and move towards sustainable wellbeing.
Together, through connection, community, and professional support when needed, we can build resilience for the future no matter the crises. Every act of kindness, listening ear, and moment of connection strengthens the health of our shared community.
References:
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2939461/
