Штаты паляпшаюць псіхічнае здароўе дзяцей, паколькі федэральная падтрымка змяншаецца

The federal government has announced significant changes affecting mental health and education agencies, including the dismantling of the Department of Education and the elimination of 20,000 jobs at the Department of Health and Human Services. These changes also include cutting $1 billion in school-based mental health grants and merging the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration into a new entity called the Administration for a Healthy America.

In light of these reductions, states must take proactive measures to support youth mental health. Young people, from kindergarten through college, are facing rising levels of anxiety, depression, and suicide risk. As federal resources dwindle, states can lead initiatives to fill the gaps in mental health services.

Five states—Pennsylvania, Oregon, Texas, Louisiana, and Arizona—are already implementing innovative strategies to strengthen mental health support for students. Here are the key approaches these states are using:

1. **Prioritize Mental Health Across State Agencies**: States need to integrate mental health services into all education-related initiatives. Pennsylvania’s PA Maslow framework exemplifies this approach by treating mental health as a fundamental need alongside housing and transportation, facilitating cooperation among schools, colleges, and state agencies. Oregon collects statewide mental health data through surveys to inform policy, while Arizona’s Student Well-being Workgroup gathers student feedback to shape mental health strategies.

2. **Ensure Continuous Access to Care**: Transitioning from high school to college often leaves students without essential mental health services. Pennsylvania is addressing this by aligning K-12 and postsecondary services. Arizona’s Healthy Tomorrow Initiative connects health strategies with workforce development, ensuring that mental health support continues seamlessly as students progress through education.

3. **Tailor Care to Youth Needs**: Effective mental health care must cater to individual challenges. States can promote comprehensive mental health plans that target underserved populations. For example, Arizona offers multilingual counseling, while Louisiana expands telehealth services in rural areas, ensuring that diverse student needs are met.

4. **Develop Workforce and Infrastructure**: A shortage of mental health professionals hampers service delivery. States can invest in developing educational pathways for mental health careers and offer incentives for professionals. Arizona is addressing this by increasing the number of medical schools and programs, while Pennsylvania supports student-led mental health initiatives with financial stipends. Training educators and peer mentors also plays a critical role in building a supportive environment for students.

5. **Utilize Data for Policy and Funding**: As federal reporting changes, states must enhance their data collection methods to track outcomes and allocate resources effectively. Texas connects mental health investments to student retention and graduation rates, while Pennsylvania conducts audits to identify barriers to care. By presenting data-driven results, states can advocate for ongoing funding and support for mental health initiatives.

States have a unique opportunity to step up and lead in youth mental health as federal assistance diminishes. Collaboration with federal entities remains essential to maintain oversight and ensure civil rights compliance. Policymakers must engage with the federal government to protect necessary funding and programs that foster student well-being and prepare them for future challenges.

This is a pivotal moment for states to take decisive action in improving mental health support for young people, ensuring they have the resources they need to thrive.