Mental health resources, research, and statistics in Dallas, Texas

The State of Mental Health in Dallas, TX

Mental health remains a pressing issue in Dallas, with a significant portion of the population experiencing challenges related to anxiety, depression, and access to care. Recent data indicates that 36.8% of Texas adults report symptoms of anxiety and depression—higher than the national average. Additionally, 64.7% of Texas youth (ages 12–17) with depression did not receive care, highlighting critical gaps in support for young people.

Access to mental health professionals is also a major concern. In Dallas County, there is one provider for every 527 patients, contributing to delays in receiving care. Furthermore, 23% of adults in Dallas are uninsured, making it even more difficult for many residents to access necessary services. Texans, in general, face additional obstacles, as over 15 million residents live in areas with a shortage of mental health professionals, leading to a higher likelihood of being forced out-of-network for treatment.

Demographic data from Thriveworks, a mental health service provider in Dallas, shows that women are more likely to seek care (60%) than men (31%), with the majority of those receiving treatment falling between the ages of 26 and 34 (26%). Additionally, “6% of Dallas adults experience a major depressive episode” in the average year, underscoring the widespread need for intervention and support.

Despite these challenges, Dallas offers a range of mental health resources, including crisis hotlines, non-profit organizations, and support groups. Organizations like NAMI North Texas, Mental Health America of Greater Dallas (MHA Dallas), and the Grant Halliburton Foundation provide essential services to those in need. Specialized helplines, such as the Suicide & Crisis Center of North Texas (214-828-1000) and the North Texas Behavioral Health Authority (866-260-8000), offer immediate assistance to individuals in crisis.

Interestingly, Google search trends show that mental health-related queries peak in January, February, and March, suggesting that seasonal factors may contribute to increased distress. This pattern highlights the importance of year-round access to mental health services and targeted outreach efforts during critical periods.

While there are still significant barriers to mental health care in Dallas, the city’s growing network of resources and community support organizations play a vital role in helping residents navigate their mental health journeys. By expanding access to care and raising awareness, Dallas can continue working toward a healthier and more supported population.

Mental Health Resources in Dallas, TX

In addition to professional care, Dallas offers a range of resources for those in need of mental health support. These include emergency services, local helplines, non-profit organizations, and support groups that provide assistance outside of traditional clinical settings. Whether you’re seeking immediate help or long-term support, the following resources can guide you to the care you seek in Dallas.

Emergency services 

• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call 7-1-1 for TTY users or text 9-8-8
• Crisis Text Line: Text 741741 (Available 24/7)
• Veterans Crisis Line: Call 9-8-8 and press 1 or text 838255
• Suicide & Crisis Center of North Texas 24-hour Crisis Line: 214-828-1000
• Adapt Community Solutions 24/7 Mobile Crisis Hotline: 866-260-8000

Not-for-profits

• The JED Foundation
• SAM Foundation
• NAMI North Texas
• Mental Heath America of Greater Dallas (MHA Dallas)
• Grant Halliburton Foundation

Local Clinics and Hotlines 

• SAMHSA National Helpline: Call 800-662-HELP (800-662-4357)
• National Maternal Mental Health Hotline: Text or Call 833-TLC-MAMA (833-852-6262)
• National Domestic Violence Hotline: Call 800-799-SAFE (800-799-7233) or Text  “LOVEIS” to 22522 or call 866-331-9474 or 800-787-3224 for TTY users
•  Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline: Text or Call 800-4-A-Child (800-422-4453)
• National Sexual Assault Hotline: Call 800-656-HOPE (800-656-4673) or chat here
• North Texas Behavioral Health Authority: 866-260-8000

Support Groups

• NAMI North Texas
• Mental Health American of Greater Dallas (MHA Dallas)

Mental Health Statistics in Dallas, TX

Mental health is a significant concern in Dallas, with many residents affected by various mental health conditions. While services are available, gaps in access to care remain. Below, we highlight key statistics that illustrate the mental health landscape in Dallas, including prevalence rates, common issues, and local service usage. These data offer valuable insight into the city’s mental health needs and the ongoing efforts to address them.

• “From February 1 to 13, 2023, 36.8% of adults in Texas reported symptoms of anxiety and/or depressive disorder, compared to 32.3% of adults in the U.S.”¹
• “64.7% of Texans age 12–17 who have depression did not receive any care in 2021.”²
• According to Google, search trends around mental health issues in Dallas tend to peak around January, February, and March.³
• For every mental health provider in Dallas County, there are 527 patients.⁴
• 23% of adults in Dallas are uninsured.⁴
• Of all the people that booked an appointment with Thriveworks in Dallas in the last year, 51% were female-identifying, 40% were male-identifying, and 9% were unknown or non-binary.⁵
• Age breakdown of those who sought mental health care with Thriveworks over the last year in Dallas⁵
  • Ages 18-25: 20%
  • Ages 26-34: 26%
  • Ages 35-44: 20%
  • Ages 45-64: 18%
  • Ages 65+: 3%
• “15,072,179 people in Texas live in a community that does not have enough mental health professionals. Texans are over 5x more likely to be forced out-of-network.”²
• In an average year, “6% of adults in Dallas Texas experience a major depressive episode.”⁶
• “43.4% of adults in Texas reported symptoms of anxiety or depression. 26.4% of those individuals were unable to get needed counseling or therapy.”²