Suicide is the second leading cause of death among young people in Texas. And the nearly 65% of Texas youth who are living with depression did not receive mental healthcare in the last year. The youth mental health crisis across the U.S. is evident. Exacerbated by the pandemic, social media obsession, and (as recently researched) more readily available opioids, young people are suffering with very little access to treatment. But in Texas, this crisis is disproportionately dire–the state ranks 50th out of 51 for mental healthcare access. (source)
The gravity of this crisis in Texas provides us with an opportunity to create and embrace innovative solutions. One such solution is Charlie Health.
Charlie Health is the largest provider of virtual mental healthcare for young people (12-28) living with severe mental health challenges. From PTSD borne out of sexual trauma to major depression to traumatic brain injuries, Charlie Health has created a program that is able to meet patients where they are–including in Texas. Texas Resident, John Isner, Professional American Tennis Player who has been partnering with Charlie Health Texas since its state launch late last year, said, “It’s amazing to see Charlie Health expand their resources nationwide to those that are most in need now. Whether it’s professional sports or everyday life, mental health is absolutely vital and Charlie Health is shining a critical spotlight on this issue.”
Charlie Health partners with major insurance companies and Medicaid to keep costs low while also employing expert, licensed clinicians who specialize in targeted diagnoses and conditions. Charlie Health is a direct answer to the youth suicide and mental health crisis because we are actively creating access for young people who don’t live within driving distance of a mental healthcare provider, can’t afford treatment, or are unable to miss school or work to get the care they need. And being virtual means there are no waitlists. A teenager who is actively suicidal doesn’t have 10 days to wait to see a therapist. They need immediate care–and that’s what Charlie Health provides. The Charlie Health Texas team is in schools, hospitals, and other community health organizations building bridges between providers who don’t have the ability to treat the patients who need the most acute care.