The Virginia Hospital & Healthcare Association (VHHA) released a report examining the state of behavioral health in the Commonwealth, highlighting it as one of Virginia’s most urgent public health priorities.
The report, titled “Behavioral Health in Virginia: Transforming Access, Care, and Outcomes,” was released to the public last Thursday – nearly one month after it was shared during the group’s 2025 Virginia Behavioral Health Summit in Richmond, which featured keynote addresses, expert panel discussions, and breakout sessions designed to address critical issues in behavioral health.
The 52-page report explains that demand for behavioral health services has surged across all age groups, a trend intensified by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Despite this, the report details that access to high-quality, timely care remains inconsistent and that providers across the state continue to struggle with recruiting and retaining qualified staff, further straining the system.
In addition to workforce shortages, the report highlights that Virginia’s behavioral health system remains fragmented and difficult for patients and families to navigate, and that better coordination among state agencies, schools, health care providers, and community organizations is urgently needed to ensure that individuals receive care.
Although acknowledging the recent state investments have created some positive momentum, the report details significant funding gaps, particularly in crisis response, prevention, and long-term supportive care.
The report identified several strategic priorities to help transform Virginia’s behavioral health system, highlighting that the Commonwealth stands at a “pivotal” moment to build a more responsive and sustainable behavioral health system.
“With targeted investments and durable partnerships, the Commonwealth can build a behavioral health system that meets the growing needs of its residents, supports providers, and delivers care that is accessible, coordinated, and effective for all Virginians,” the report reads.
VHHA President and CEO Sean T. Connaughton added, “The presence of growing service demand, persistent workforce and reimbursement challenges, and the unique care needs of a diverse patient population requires stakeholders, including providers, to collaborate on solutions and strategies.”
– – –
Kaitlin Housler is a reporter at The Virginia Star and The Star News Network. Follow Kaitlin on X / Twitter.
