Tilman J. Fertitta Family College of Medicine

Half of lifetime cases of mental illness begin at age 14, making Mental Health and Behavioral Health prevention and support a priority. As we have seen around our city, there is a growing unmet need for school behavioral and mental health services, which sets the foundation for creating and sustaining safe and positive learning environments. 

Research shows that students who receive these types of services perform better behaviorally and academically.  Left untreated, children with behavioral health issues may experience socialization challenges, academic underachievement, juvenile justice involvement, and risk of suicide. Unfortunately, in Houston, there is only 1 counselor for every 1,604 students. Given this context, a school-based system of care is essential. 

Source: Mental Health America of Greater Houston and 2021 Center for School Behavioral Health Consensus Recommendations Report.   

We are raising money to support the College’s innovative Child and Adolescent Mental Health Program. As part of the Behavorial and Social Sciences Department at the Tilman J. Fertitta Family College of Medicine, this program aims to increase the UH Family Health Care Center’s capacity to engage and treat children and families in the Third Ward, East End and nearby communities with evidence-based, culturally guided and trauma-informed mental health care. Additionally, the College of Medicine works with area public schools to provide on-site trainings to teachers, educational leaders and other stakeholders to certify them in Mental Health First-Aid, classroom management and other areas of need as identified by the schools.