Knowledge for Impact: Documenting Lived Experience of Behavioral Health in Harris County
SUMMARY – This brief summarizes findings and recommendations from a 2024 study aimed at understanding the experiences of Harris County residents navigating the local behavioral health system.
Project Details
The Hackett Center for Mental Health conducted a mixed-methods study from January 2024 to August 2024. The brief includes actionable recommendations to address local challenges in accessing and engaging care.
Key takeaways include recommendations to: 1) increase collaborative partnerships and integrated care, 2) increase patient centered communication and supports, 3) take new approaches to addressing stigma and behavioral health literacy, and 4) expand youth engagement efforts.
This project is made possible by the generous support of The Cullen Trust for Health Care, The William Stamps Farish Fund, and Rockwell Fund Inc. We extend heartfelt thanks to the Harris County community members who contributed their time, experiences, and insights through focus groups and surveys.
Knowledge for Impact fills an important gap in our understanding. The data gives us insight into how our neighbors across Houston’s diverse communities think about and act to support their behavioral health. We are excited to share the results with stakeholders across the behavioral health system. In particular, we are encouraged by the interest from our Board and from other philanthropic organizations as we invest in approaches that respect and reflect the wisdom and experience of Harris County residents.”
– Dr. Cullen Geiselman, Chairman of the Board, The Cullen Trust for Health Care
- 72% of adults and 57% of Opportunity Youth* believed people in their community would rely on a close loved one for behavioral healthcare.
- 69% of adults and 71% of Opportunity Youth knew of people with mental health issues in their family and/or neighborhood.
- 56% of adults and 65% of Opportunity Youth knew of people with substance abuse issues in their family and/or neighborhood.
- 35% of respondents lacked health insurance.
- 35% of adults and 29% of Opportunity Youth did not have insurance that covers behavioral healthcare.
* In the study, Opportunity Youth (OY) are defined as those aged 18-24 who are or were recently disconnected from traditional school or employment systems.
For more information about The Hackett Center or for more details regarding the Knowledge for Impact Study, please contact Dr. Quianta Moore at qmoore@mmhpi.org.