Yup. You read that right.

It is estimated that more than one in five U.S. adults live with a mental illness, totaling a staggering 57.8 million individuals in 2021. The urgency to address this crisis has never been more apparent. And as we strive to emerge from the grips of the Covid-19 pandemic, this figure is only surging higher. It’s not just a statistic anymore—it’s a call to action we can no longer afford to ignore.

Our nation, our cities, our communities—every facet of society must confront this new public health crisis head-on. We must prioritize mental health support and resources, destigmatize seeking help, and foster a culture of understanding and empathy. Every individual struggling deserves access to quality care and the opportunity to thrive.

That’s exactly what Metrocare is working to accomplish in our community, by partnering with the City of Dallas to educate people on the importance of mental health through our Dallas Heals campaign.

The statistics from the 2023 “State of Mental Health” report paint a stark picture for our state and highlight the urgency to improve current trends. Texas ranks 3rd in the prevalence of mental illness, but 46th in overall mental health and 51st – yes, last place – in access to care.

Dallas has the chance to be a beacon of change and set a new standard for mental health care, one that prioritizes compassion, inclusivity, and innovation. At Metrocare, we have boots on the ground in Dallas’ marginalized communities, including low-income communities, historically underserved communities, and communities of color.

Let’s work to break down barriers to treatment, whether they be financial, cultural, or logistical. Together, we can build a Dallas where mental health care is not just a privilege for a few, but a right for all.

You can help end the stigma by promoting open and honest conversations about mental health. This means encouraging people to share their experiences, whether they’re living with a mental illness or supporting someone who is. It also means understanding the signs & symptoms of mental illness – so you can recognize the need for help your yourself, your loved ones, and your neighbors.

Metrocare is North Texas’ leader in mental health, developmental disability, and substance abuse services. For the past 50 years, we’ve provided mental health care to residents in Dallas County, serving over 50,000 children, adolescents, and adults annually. Metrocare provides a wide array of mental health services, including outpatient clinics, community-based support and rehabilitative programs, housing and homeless services, intensive family services, and long-term support services.