There is a relationship here, as one of the first hings Trump did was lift regulations that made it more difficult for mentally ill persons to buy guns.

Absolutely.
My physician wanted me to consult a psychiatrist about PTSD. None in the greater Dayton area were taking new patients. Didn't matter about insurance coverage or ability to pay.
But! With my C&R licence from the ATF, I can walk into a local firearms wholesaler and purchase a shipping carton, ( one dozen) of my preferred concealed carry sidearm, complete with extra magazines, for about a thousand dollars. No waiting period.

This is so true, especially for teens. As an educator I have had students, one particular who was increasingly hearing voices. Parent had great difficulty getting him help due to crappy (private) insurance and difficulty finding appts. By the end of the previous school year she was hoping he'd be seen. School starts in a few weeks I'm hoping for the best but prepared for the worst. I've taught in NC (current) and NH. Situations are the same. Also, the schools were not in poor areas, it's problem for all.

As long as we wrong our hands,and feebly offer thoughts and 'prayers' this will continue!When does this stop?

Not only is it hard to find a mental health therapist, the ones available are usually booked for months. When I was going through my divorce, it was hard to find a good one. Many were “Christian based” so useless to me. I found one that was good and her office was always packed with people waiting to see her and then she retired. I struggled to find a replacement and gave up.

Recently my cat died and I tried to find help for my grief and depression through my company employee assistance program. The choices in my area were slim to none. The one I went to made me feel worse. I can’t imagine what others go through trying to find help, especially if they don’t have the resources I do.

And that's the Sad truth of it!