Introducing the Adolescent Patient Assistance Fund: Expanding Access to Mental Health Care for Youth

Adolescent mental health challenges are rising across the United States, with one in five young people experiencing a mental or behavioral health condition. For many families, the largest barrier to accessing help is financial strain. 

 

Today, The Menninger Clinic is honored to announce the launch of the Adolescent Patient Assistance Fund, made possible by a remarkable $1 million gift from a generous, anonymous Texas donor. This fund ensures that adolescents ages 12 to 17 can receive the mental health treatment they need, even when insurance coverage or financial resources fall short. 

 

While insurance acceptance at Menninger has expanded access, reimbursement rates often cover only one and a half to two weeks of treatment. Yet, optimal outcomes typically require four to six weeks of continuous, evidence-based care. 

 

This gap leaves many families without options. In 2024 alone, 5,840 adolescents and young adults were unable to complete recommended treatment with Menninger due to financial constraints or out-of-network restrictions. Too many young people were forced to leave care before they were ready. 

 

The Adolescent Patient Assistance Fund directly addresses this need. It provides no-cost or reduced-fee care for adolescents who cannot afford treatment or who have exhausted their insurance benefits, ensuring that cost is never a barrier to healing. 

 

Adolescence is a critical period of development. Half of all lifetime mental illnesses begin by age 14, yet many go undetected or untreated. The consequences can be significant, including academic struggles, substance use, family stress, and increased risk of suicide, which is now the second leading cause of death among youth ages 10 to 14. 

 

This fund helps young people remain in treatment long enough to build stability, learn coping skills, and find hope. With access to world-class clinical teams and a full continuum of services, adolescents can receive care that supports lasting recovery. 

 

The creation of this fund reflects a shared belief that every young person deserves a chance to heal, grow, and move forward with confidence. It is our hope that this generous gift inspires others to support adolescent mental health and expand access to life-changing care.  

 

The Adolescent Patient Assistance Fund is now open for additional contributions from individuals, families, and community partners who want to help more adolescents receive the care they deserve. Every gift strengthens the network of support for vulnerable youth and advances Menninger’s mission to provide accessible, evidence-based mental health care. 

 

To support the fund or learn more, visit menningerclinic.org/donate.