I am often reminded of the incredible strength and resilience of Southwest Floridians. I see it every day in the faces of the adults, children and families that come through David Lawrence Centers’ doors seeking hope and healing.
While we have made strides in addressing the mental health and substance use crisis facing our community, the overwhelming need for compassionate care remains. Last year alone, nearly 8,000 children and adults received care at DLC. We’ve seen children struggling with anxiety, parents battling depression and young adults searching for hope in recovery.
These challenges extend far beyond Collier County. Across the nation, we’re seeing a greater need for lifesaving care to support individuals with mental and behavioral health challenges. The statistics are heartbreaking. One in five adults will experience a mental health condition this year. Suicide is the second leading cause of death among young people. The impact of untreated mental illness ripples through our community, affecting families, schools, workplaces and hospitals…