The U.S. has one of the highest rates of depression in the world, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Nearly 1 in 5 U.S. adults live with a mental illness (52.9 million in 2020 and makes up 20% of the population) but only 46% of those affected receive mental health care. 16.5% of U.S Youth aged 1-17 experienced a mental health disorder and 50% receives mental health care. Mental health disorders like depression, schizophrenia, and obsessive-compulsive disorder, account for several of the top causes of disability and lead to suicide attempts. In addition, 1 in 25 are currently living with a serious mental illness, such as an eating disorder, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), or major depression.

Texas is one of the most populated states with a population of 26.9 million making it second in the nation. Around 4% of adults (according to SAMHSA) live with serious mental health conditions such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and major depression. Of these, only 38% get treatment, and the remaining 62% are without treatment or proper support. According to Mental Health America (MHA), Texas ranks last on the board (51/51) in overall access to mental health. 

The reasons for less access to mental health in Texas are lack of adequate resources and funds, shortage of trained professionals, low insurance coverage or financial challenges, stigma prevalence – especially within various ethnic and immigrant communities – and less knowledge about the existing resources. In addition to the above factors, individuals in some communities, do not consider mental illness as a disease. They deem it more like a divine retribution or a spiritual problem (Tim Newman, 2020, Medical myths: Mental health misconceptions). Throughout history, in times of crises, many people turned to their faith or community leaders for solace and support (according to the Center for Faith & Opportunity Initiative, US Dept of Health, 1 in 4 turns to their faith leader). Educating people about the importance, significance, and treatments available for mental health can be possible through their trusted faith leaders. Identifying faith leaders who can influence and get out the message about mental health is a step in preventing serious mental illness from ever occurring.

In response to this need the Ibn Sina Foundation (ISF), in collaboration with National Alliance on Mental Illness, Greater Houston (NAMI), Mental Health America (MHA), Fort Bend County Behavioral Health Services, The Harris Center for Mental Health and IDD, and other partner organizations, organizing the Interfaith Behavioral and Mental health Conference. The primary purpose of this conference is to increase awareness of mental health, provide a platform, build knowledge around identifying mental health issues, and mobilize faith and community leaders, from various traditions, to bring tools and resources back to their congregations and communities.