Mental health in Young County
17.3% of adults in Young County report frequent mental distress, according to CDC PLACES data. Understanding mental health in our community is an important step toward ensuring residents have access to appropriate resources and support.
Local context
Young County is located in North Texas. The availability of mental health professionals within the county is a key factor in access to care. Data from NPPES indicates that Young County has 0 psychiatrists, 4 psychologists, 0 social workers, 20 counselors, and 1 marriage and family therapist. While counselors are present, the absence of psychiatrists and social workers highlights a potential gap in specialized mental health services within the immediate area. This can mean that residents may need to travel outside the county for certain types of care, particularly for psychiatric evaluations or medication management. This is further complicated by 15.9% of adults in Young County being uninsured, which can be a significant barrier to accessing any healthcare, including mental health services.
How to get care
Accessing mental health support involves several avenues:
- Telehealth: Given the limited local specialists, telehealth services are a vital option for Young County residents. Many licensed mental health professionals across Texas offer virtual appointments, providing access to a broader range of providers without requiring travel.
- Primary Care Referrals: Your primary care physician in Graham or anywhere in Young County can be a first point of contact. They can screen for common mental health conditions, offer initial support, and provide referrals to mental health specialists, whether in-person or via telehealth.
- Local Mental Health Authority (LMHA): Texas’s LMHA system provides services for individuals with serious mental illness and emotional disturbances, regardless of their ability to pay. While the specific LMHA serving Young County may be located in a neighboring area, they are a critical resource for comprehensive mental health services. Contacting them directly can help determine eligibility and service availability.
- Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs): FQHCs offer integrated physical and behavioral health services, often on a sliding scale based on income. While there may not be an FQHC directly within Young County, identifying the nearest FQHC can provide access to affordable care.
When you need help now
If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, immediate help is available:
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 anytime to connect with trained crisis counselors. This service is free, confidential, and available 24/7.
- Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 to connect with a crisis counselor via text message.
- Emergency Rooms: Any local emergency room in Young County is legally required to evaluate behavioral health emergencies. If you are in immediate danger or believe someone else is, go to the nearest emergency room for evaluation and stabilization.