Teaching mental health in schools

ALBANY, N.Y. » A new state law is taking effect that will require schools to teach mental health to students in elementary, middle and high school.

The measure was passed and signed into law in 2016. It requires schools to include teaching about mental health in traditional physical education and health classes. It takes effect on Sunday.

The mandate is intended to help students understand more about emotional and mental wellness, and help them understand when to seek help for themselves or others. Supporters say that the law could help prevent later substance abuse and suicides by giving students important information about mental well-being.

Glenn Liebman, chief executive of the Mental Health Asso- ciation of New York State, calls the new law groundbreaking.

“By introducing mental health education at age appropriate levels from elementary through high school, mental health will be normalized just as physical health is, stigma will be reduced and children and parents will learn about prevention and when and how they should ask for help,” said NYS Office of Mental Health Commissioner Dr. Ann Sullivan. “Through education, we can change people’s perception of mental illness, and encourage future generations to ask for help if they’re feeling depressed or anxious as easily as they ask for help for an injured leg or a sore throat.”

“The public is finally coming around to the notion that to properly address mental health issues, we must first acknowledge and openly discuss them,” said State Education Commissioner MaryEllen Elia. “We will soon provide our schools with resources, developed together with the NYS Office of Mental Health and MHANYS, on men-

tal health instruction that extends beyond the classroom, to promote a climate of wellness that enhances the whole child, the whole school and the whole community.”

New York’s law is the first in the nation to require mental health instruction in schools, and mental health professionals expect others states to follow New York’s lead.

The Mental Health Training and Resource Center, which is supported through grant funding from the New York State Legislature and governor, will provide assistance and guidance through an online platform, a hotline for school districts and a team of experts in education and mental health. Additionally, the center will offer mental health training for staff and help schools establish community partnerships to meet the mental health needs of students and families. Starting immediately, schools can contact the Mental Health Training and Resource Center with questions or requests for assistance at schools@mhanys.org.

The School Mental Health Resource and Training Center’s website opened July 2 at www. mentalhealthednys.org, and its full services will be launched later this summer.