The Engage and Heal Foundation is changing the narrative around mental health in Central Texas communities and schools. We know mental health and wellness is vital for individuals to thrive and holistically makes communities stronger.  Statistics provided by the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) indicate:

• 1 in 5 U.S. adults experience mental illness each year

• 1 in 20 U.S. adults experience serious mental illness each year

• 1 in 6 U.S. youth aged 6-17 experience a mental health disorder each year

• 50% of all lifetime mental illness begins by age 14, and 75% by age 24

• Suicide is the 2nd leading cause of death among people aged 10-14

Central Texas is not immune to the crisis posed by mental health challenges. The Engage and Heal Foundation was formed in response to a tragic loss. In 2018, Erik Hanson, a Lake Travis High School (LTHS) graduate – an honors student and varsity football player – and cadet in the corps at Texas A&M University, lost his struggle with mental health. Relentlessly bothered by the question, “What could I have done to prevent this?” Amelia Floyd, whose daughter was Erik’s best friend, set out to share resources with students and raise awareness about mental health challenges. 

The Engage and Heal Foundation seeks to improve access and acceptance of mental health resources. During our first five years, we are proud to have brought these activities to life in the Lake Travis community:

• Offer the ROPES Course at Lake Travis High School to teach ​teamwork, leadership skills and confidence; more than 900 individuals served to-date

• Provide mental health basics to create age-appropriate mental health literacy for youth in grades 5-8, in partnership with community organizations and school clubs

• Educate youth in grades 9-12 through mental health literacy trainings

• Activate a Student Ambassador program to raise awareness of mental health and help students recognize warning signs

• Partner with the Lake Travis High School LT Breathe Initiative club to maintain the Zen Room, an on-campus calming space for students

• Ensure access to online therapy for faculty and teachers through Anticipate Joy

• Reach caregivers and community members through mental health forums to expand mental health literacy education and prevention