The Center for Children & Families Shines a Light on Mental Health Awareness Month with Services Across Louisiana and Mississippi
Since the pandemic, rates of anxiety, depression, and trauma in children and families have surged, leaving many without the support they need to cope. This May, during Mental Health Awareness Month, The Center for Children & Families is urging the public to recognize the signs, spread awareness, and support accessible mental health care across Louisiana and Mississippi.
Understanding the Need
Mental health is essential to overall well-being. It shapes how individuals think, feel, connect with others, and respond to life’s challenges. For children, families, and individuals, poor mental health can affect everything from school performance and relationships to physical health and long-term stability.
Across our nation and local communities, children are experiencing increased rates of anxiety, depression, and trauma-related symptoms. Many of these challenges are rooted in experiences such as abuse, neglect, family instability, and exposure to violence, often showing up in behaviors that can be misunderstood or overlooked.
How The Center Helps
Despite the growing need, many families face barriers to care, including limited providers in rural areas, lack of insurance, stigma, or simply not knowing where to turn. That’s where The Center steps in. “We believe that no child should suffer in silence and no family should have to face mental health challenges alone,” said Dr. Matt Nappier, Chief Executive Officer of The Center for Children & Families. “This month is about shining a light on those needs and the powerful outcomes possible through compassionate care.”
Proven Impact Across the Region
The Center’s commitment to high-quality mental health services continues to produce meaningful outcomes across the communities it serves:
- 97% of clients said staff were respectful; 96% felt truly heard
- 90% of families reported feeling stronger after receiving services
- 80% of clients met at least 2 treatment goals
These outcomes reflect the agency’s strong clinical standards, evidence-based practices, and strong community partnerships across Louisiana and into Mississippi.
Expanding Access and Breaking Stigmas
The Center’s team of compassionate counselors offers in-person and telehealth mental health care to help children, families, and individuals navigate challenges such as trauma, anxiety, grief, depression, and other life difficulties. Services are available regardless of insurance status or income.
“In many rural and underserved communities, we may be the only mental health provider some families can reach,” said Dr. Karissa Humphries, Chief Clinical Officer. “We’re committed to meeting families where they are both emotionally and geographically.”
How the Community Can Help
- Recognize When Help Is Needed or Make a Referral
Our licensed professionals are here to help. Referrals can be made by anyone, including medical providers, school staff, family members, or the individuals themselves. Our compassionate counselors are here to help. Visit www.standforhope.org or call 1-866-398-0945 to begin a referral or learn more about our counseling services available across Louisiana and Mississippi.
• Spread awareness:
Talk about mental health. Share our social media posts. Help break the stigma, so more children, families, and individuals feel safe asking for help. Follow us on Facebook & Instagram @standforhopetogether
- Donate to support care for families in need:
Every dollar ensures a child can access therapy, a family can begin healing, and a community becomes stronger. Make a tax-deductible gift at www.standforhope.org/donate.
“Together, we can build stronger families, safer communities, and a more hopeful future,” added Dr. Matt Nappier, Chief Executive Officer.
