Mental Wellness Institute

Transforming Mental Wellness Across Florida

Turning data-driven insights into action for Florida’s workforce, veterans, and youth. 

The Mental Wellness Institute is a business-led initiative of the Florida Chamber Health Council, part of the Florida Chamber Leadership Cabinet on Safety, Health, and Sustainability. Built on the findings of our first-of-its-kind business-led Behavioral Health Report, the Institute helps Florida employers and communities turn research into real-world mental wellness solutions—for the workplace, at home, and in schools. In partnership with Meadows Mental Health Policy Institute, we’re translating insight into measurable impact.

Workforce

Empowering Florida employers to lead mental wellness in the workplace. We help businesses create safe, stigma-free environments through scalable workplace programs, training, and behavioral health integration—resulting in healthier teams and stronger performance. 

Veterans & First Responders

Expanding trauma-informed care and support for those who serve. Our Institute is advancing evidence-based programs for veterans, active-duty military, and first responders—prioritizing recovery, performance, and resilience after service and during high-stress careers. 

Youth

Building early intervention and resilience strategies for Florida’s youth. We work to prevent crisis escalation by addressing mental health challenges in K‑12 systems and afterschool programs—partnering with schools, nonprofits, and care providers.

Our Story & Vision

Behind every struggling employee, veteran, or student is a ripple effect that touches families, businesses, and entire communities.

That’s why the Florida Chamber Health Council created the Mental Wellness Institute—to bring the voice of business to the front lines of behavioral health.

We believe employers and community leaders have the power to drive lasting change. Together, we’re turning policy, data, and real-world needs into action—one workplace, school, and support system at a time.

Turning Insight Into Impact

Backed by the 2024 report Making Florida the National Leader for Mental Health and Well-Being, the Institute brings research to life. The report outlined 25 strategic recommendations to improve access to care, reduce substance use, and prevent suicide across key populations. 

Our mission is simple: to make Florida the healthiest state in America by supporting real-world mental wellness solutions across three areas of focus. 

Fund the Future of Mental Wellness

Florida’s mental wellness future depends on bold, business-led action—and that starts with leaders like you. Whether you’re looking to fund pilot programs, sponsor statewide initiatives, or champion workplace mental health, your support fuels real solutions across Florida’s workforce, veteran community, and youth population.

Every contribution helps us:

  • Launch scalable mental health programs in schools and workplaces

  • Expand access to trauma-informed care for veterans and first responders

  • Equip businesses with tools to support their employees’ mental well-being

Join us in turning insight into impact. Together, we can make Florida the healthiest state in America.

Our Team

Join the Movement


Florida’s mental wellness future depends on leaders like you. Whether you’re a business, nonprofit, community champion, or policymaker—there’s a way to contribute.

Let’s take action together to ensure Florida becomes the healthiest state in America.