May is Mental Health Awareness Month: BSA Behavioral Health Encourages Early Support, Expands Access to Care

AMARILLO, Texas — May is Mental Health Awareness Month and BSA Behavioral Health is encouraging individuals and families to prioritize mental wellness, recognize when support is needed, and know that help is available.

Mental health conditions affect people of every age and background, yet stigma and delayed treatment continue to prevent many from getting care. Nationally, the age-adjusted suicide rate remained alarmingly high in 2023 at 14.12 per 100,000 people, underscoring the urgent need for greater awareness, access, and intervention.

“Mental healthcare is healthcare, and it should be viewed no differently than caring for our physical well-being,” said Shaina Westbrook, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-BC, Clinic Director of BSA Behavioral Health. “Too often people wait until they are in crisis before reaching out. We want our community to know treatment can bring hope, healing and stability, and that seeking help is a sign of strength.”

BSA Behavioral Health provides treatment for a wide range of mental health needs, including depression, treatment-resistant depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, dementia, OCD, personality disorders, sleep disorders, eating disorders, and schizophrenia. The clinic also offers psychiatric care for children ages 6 and older, helping meet a critical need in the Texas Panhandle where there are a limited number of pediatric behavioral health providers available.

“Early support can make a tremendous difference, especially for children and adolescents,” said Brandi Cooper, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC, who recently joined the clinic. “We know families are often searching for answers and support. We want them to know compassionate, specialized care is available close to home. Whether someone is navigating anxiety, depression, attention concerns, or more complex challenges, they do not have to do it alone.”

Westbrook said Mental Health Awareness Month is an opportunity to remind people that mental health care is not only for times of crisis, but also for prevention, resilience and long-term wellness.

“Taking care of your mental health can look different for everyone,” Westbrook added. “Sometimes it starts with a conversation, sometimes with counseling or medication management, and sometimes simply by recognizing it is time to ask for help. What matters most is taking that first step.”

As communities across the country continue to face rising mental health challenges, BSA Behavioral Health hopes to help reduce stigma and connect more people to care.

“Treatment works, recovery is possible, and no one should feel ashamed to seek support,” Cooper said. “This month is a reminder that hope is real and help is available.”

BSA Behavioral Health is currently accepting new patients and often has same-day appointments available. 

For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact BSA Behavioral Health at 806-350-7601 or visit bsabehavioralhealth.com to learn more.