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

The State of Mental Health in Austin, TX

Austin, TX reflects national mental health trends while facing unique local challenges. A concerning 32.3% of Travis County residents report experiencing five or more days of poor mental health each month, a statistic that has seen a greater than 25% rise over the past decade. This increase underscores the growing need for accessible mental health services, yet availability remains a significant hurdle. With only one mental health provider for every 291 patients in Travis County, many residents struggle to receive timely care.

Additionally, more than one in three adults in Texas (36.8%) reported experiencing symptoms of anxiety or depression, mirroring the high demand for support services. The need is further emphasized by the fact that over 15 million Texans live in areas lacking sufficient mental health professionals. For Austin residents, these statistics highlight both the importance of local resources and the gaps in accessibility that persist.

Despite these challenges, help is available. Organizations like NAMI Texas, Integral Care, and various national helplines provide critical support, whether for immediate crises or long-term assistance. The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline receives an average of 350,000 contacts per month, demonstrating the vital role these services play.

Mental health care access also varies across demographics. Women are slightly more likely to seek therapy than men in Austin, with 51% of appointments at Thriveworks booked by female-identifying individuals. Young adults (ages 26-34) make up the largest group seeking mental health support at 29%, followed by those ages 35-44 at 23%. Meanwhile, older adults (65+) are the least likely to seek mental health services, comprising just 4% of those booking care.

One emerging concern is that Google search trends for mental health resources in Austin are at an all-time low, suggesting that while mental health issues persist, awareness and proactive help-seeking behaviors may be declining. Given the city’s increasing mental health needs, expanding outreach efforts and improving access to care will be essential in supporting Austin’s residents.

Mental Health Resources in Austin, TX

In addition to professional care, Austin 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 Austin.

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

Not-for-profits

• The JED Foundation
• SAM Foundation
• NAMI Texas
• Via HOPE

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
• Integral Care 24-Hour Hotline : Call 512-472-4357  

Support Groups  

• NAMI Texas 
• The Austin Center for Grief & Loss

Mental Health Statistics in Austin, TX

Mental health is a significant concern in Austin, 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 Austin, 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 2021, 32.3% of Travis County residents experienced five or more days of poor mental health.”¹
• “From 2011 to 2021, there has been a greater than 25% increase in poor mental health from residents in Travis County.”²
• “36.8% of adults in Texas reported symptoms of anxiety and/or depressive disorder.”³
• “Since July 2022, 988 Lifeline averages about 350,000 contacts per month.”³
• “15,072,179 people in Texas live in a community that does not have enough mental health professionals.”⁴
• For every mental health provider in Travis County, there are 291 patients.⁵
• 12.4% of adults in Austin are uninsured.⁵
• According to Google, search trends around mental health issues in Austin are at an all-time low.⁶
• Of all the people that booked an appointment with Thriveworks in Austin in the last year, 51% were female-identifying, 40% were male-identifying, and 9% were unknown or non-binary.⁷
• Age breakdown of those who sought mental health care with Thriveworks over the last year in Austin⁷
  • Ages 18-25: 18%
  • Ages 26-34: 29%
  • Ages 35-44: 23%
  • Ages 45-64: 18%
  • Ages 65+: 4%