Mental health resources, research, and statistics in Port St. Lucie, Florida

The State of Mental Health in Port St. Lucie, FL

Mental health challenges impact many residents of Port St. Lucie, with data revealing a high prevalence of emotional distress and barriers to care. One in four residents (26.5%) report lacking the emotional support they need, while one in six adults (16.3%) experience frequent mental distress. Additionally, in 2023 alone, 3,255 adults over 18 in the city were hospitalized due to mental health disorders, underscoring the urgent need for accessible mental health services.

Access to care remains a challenge, with one mental health provider available for every 575 people in St. Lucie County. Financial barriers further limit treatment options—10.8% of adults in Port St. Lucie are uninsured, and statewide, nearly 50% of adults who needed mental health care did not receive it due to cost concerns. Given that 2.89 million adults in Florida live with a mental health condition, expanding affordable care options is critical.

Local data also shows that nearly one in five adults in Port St. Lucie (17.9%) were diagnosed with a depressive disorder as of 2019, and residents report experiencing an average of 4.6 poor mental health days in the past month. Seasonal patterns indicate that mental health concerns are heightened in January, February, and March, based on Google search trends. These findings suggest a need for targeted community outreach and increased support services, particularly during the winter months.

Despite these challenges, Port St. Lucie provides a range of mental health resources. Organizations such as NAMI Treasure Coast FL, HANDS of St. Lucie County, and Emotions Anonymous International offer valuable support through crisis intervention, peer-led groups, and educational programs. Residents can also access 24/7 crisis hotlines, including 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, Florida 211 Helpline, and the 24-hour Free Bilingual Emotional Support Helpline (833-848-1762).

While gaps in care persist, the city’s expanding network of mental health services is working to bridge these disparities. By improving awareness, reducing stigma, and increasing access to affordable care, Port St. Lucie continues to take steps toward better mental health support for its residents.

Mental Health Resources in Port St. Lucie, FL

In addition to professional care, Port St. Lucie 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 Port St. Lucie.

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
• Crisis Line : Text your zip code to 898211 for 24/7

Not-for-profits

• The JED Foundation
• SAM Foundation
• NAMI Treasure Coast FL
• HANDS of St. Lucie County

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 1-800-799-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
• Florida 211 Helpline: Dial 2-1-1
• 24-hour Free Bilingual Emotional Support HelpLine: 833-848-1762

Support Groups  

• NAMI Treasure Coast FL Support Groups
• Emotions Anonymous International

Mental Health Statistics in Port St. Lucie, FL

Mental health is a significant concern in Port St. Lucie, 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 Port St. Lucie, 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.

• “In Port St. Lucie, 26.5% of residents feel they lack the emotional support they need.”¹
• 16.3% of adults in Port St. Lucie have reported frequent mental distress.²
• In Port St Lucie in 2023, 3,255 individuals over 18 were hospitalized due to their mental disorders.³
• More than 2.8 million adults in Florida have a mental health condition.⁴
• “Of the 796,000 adults in Florida who did not receive needed mental health care , 49.7% did not do so because of cost.⁴
• There is one mental health provider per 575 people registered in St. Lucie County, Florida.⁵
• 10.8% of adults in Port St. Lucie are uninsured.⁵
• According to Google, search trends around mental health issues in Port St. Lucie tends to peak around January, February, and March.⁶
• People in Port St. Lucie have reported an average of 4.6 poor mental health days in the last 30 days.³
• Around 17.9% of adults in Port St Lucie were told they have a depressive disorder in 2019.³