Florida mental health access expands through Managing Entities network

In recent years, the conversation around mental health has grown louder — but so has the urgency.

New national data show that nearly 1 in 5 U.S. adults experiences a mental illness each year, and among young people, the picture is even more concerning. Recent findings from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration indicate that youth mental health distress remains at historically high levels, with rising rates of anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation. Suicide is now one of the leading causes of death for young Americans, and overdose deaths—often intertwined with mental health challenges—continue to impact families across every community.

The data tell a clear story: more people are struggling, and they are struggling earlier in life.

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and it remains a critical reminder to check in — with ourselves and with each other. But awareness alone is no longer enough. The new challenge before us is access: making sure that when someone decides to seek help, that help is available, local, easy to access and efficient.

The first step someone takes to get help can be the step that saves their life. And Florida’s seven behavioral health Managing Entities ensure that there is no wrong door and a person’s complete needs will be addressed – regardless of their ability to pay. This safety net system is the backbone of Florida’s behavioral health system, providing the most vulnerable Floridians – those who are uninsured or underinsured – with the support they need to get back on their feet.

The state’s behavioral health Managing Entities coordinate care, ensuring that services are not only available, but also connected. These non-profit, community-based organizations are designed to respond to local needs in real time — whether that means expanding mobile crisis response, strengthening partnerships with schools and law enforcement, or addressing housing instability that often accompanies mental health challenges.

And the outcomes matter. Care Coordination programs continue to divert a significant majority of individuals away from emergency rooms, jails, and crisis units — settings that are costly and often ill-suited for long-term recovery. Mobile Response Teams are helping people in crisis stabilize safely in their communities, reducing the need for involuntary hospitalizations.

But perhaps the most important shift is this: mental health care is moving upstream.

We see more emphasis on early intervention — supporting children in schools, offering peer support for first responders and veterans, and building stronger bridges between crisis care and long-term recovery. These efforts recognize a simple but powerful idea: the earlier someone gets help, the better the outcome.

If you or someone you love needs support, resources are closer than you might think. Calling 2-1-1 can connect you to local services tailored to your needs. And anyone in emotional distress or contemplating suicide can call or text 9-8-8 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.

Mental health challenges are common — but so is recovery, especially when care is accessible and timely.

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Natalie Kelly is CEO of the Florida Association of Managing Entities.