Lunch and Learn:

Hungry Minds: Understanding the Mental Health
Impact of Food Insecurity Among Students

Presenter: Shuniqua Ortiz, BHPP Liaison Region 10 ESC Clinician

In Texas, 13% of Texas households, 1 in 8 Texans, experience food insecurity. That’s 1.4 million Texas households and nearly 4 million individuals. Texas is one of just 9 states with higher food insecurity than the national average. Exploring the link between food insecurity and mental health, participants engage in a compassionate dialogue, acknowledging the harsh realities faced by many. Through insightful discussions and interactive activities, attendees uncover the profound psychological toll of hunger, emphasizing the importance of support and advocacy. The session fosters empathy and solidarity, empowering participants to address systemic barriers and promote a more inclusive campus environment. Armed with knowledge and empathy, students depart with a renewed commitment to supporting their peers and advocating for change.