It is time that all schools begin to implement programs that provide access to mental health services for students. Mental health is an essential part of our daily lives and without proper access to mental health care, many are impacted by this in our society. Individuals who do not have health care, primarily low-income families, often are unable to receive care that will attend their mental needs, which can even affect their work and/or school performance. Access to mental health services is a need in our communities, not a want. Therefore, supporting bill H.R. 5469, also known as Pursuing Equity in Mental Health Act of 2019, will be vital to the mental health of children and adolescents in schools. One major aspect of H.R. 5469, is that they will implement a school-based mental health program that “incorporates positive behavioral interventions, family engagement, student treatment and multigenerational supports to foster the health and development of children, prevent mental health disorders, and ameliorate the impact of trauma” (2019).
Advocating for policies that will implement school-based mental health programs, and address the problem of lack of access to mental health services for children and adolescents is crucial. According to an article by the World Health Organization, “promoting psychological well-being and protecting adolescents from adverse experiences and risk factors that may impact their potential to thrive are critical for their well-being during adolescence and for their physical and mental health in adulthood” (para. 1, 2019). As a future social worker, I believe it is our job, and the job of our nation to advocate and address this need that is vital to our children, adolescents, and adults. Without the appropriate implementation of mental health services, we are doing more harm to our citizens than good.
World Health Organization. (2019). Adolescent mental health. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/adolescent-mental-health
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