Greensboro Reporter

Washington, DC - On May 15, 2023, Congresswoman Kathy Manning (NC-06) and Congressman David Valadao (CA-22) introduced the Improving Mental Health and Wellness in Schools Act, to integrate mental health promotion, education, and resources into existing school wellness policies. In 2021the American Academy of Pediatrics, American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, and Children’s Hospital Association declared a National State of Emergency in Children’s Mental Health. 

“Students across the nation are grappling with the repercussions of the pandemic and increased pressures from social media,” said Congresswoman Kathy Manning. “Congress must act urgently to address the mental health needs of students. I’m proud to reintroduce my bipartisan bill to integrate mental health education and services into existing school wellness policies.”

“Pandemic school closures caused an alarming rise in mental health issues for young people, and as a father of three these trends are a big concern to me,” said Congressman Valadao. “Incorporating mental health education into existing school wellness programs will help to create a comprehensive approach to what our students are already learning about healthy wellness habits. This bipartisan bill ensures Central Valley schools have the tools they need to educate students about the importance of maintaining their mental and physical health so they can lead happy, fulfilling lives.”

State of Student Mental Health in North Carolina:

• North Carolina received an “F” letter-grade on mental health in schools according to the NC Child 2023 Report Card.
   
• One in five North Carolina high school students reported seriously considering attempting suicide in 2021, up from 16% in 2017.
   
• One in 10 North Carolina high school students reported attempting suicide.|
   
• More than one in 10 children ages 3-17 in North Carolina had a diagnosis of depression or anxiety in 2020 - a 49% increase from 2016. 

This bill is endorsed by the Eating Disorders Coalition, National Association of School Psychologists, National Alliance for Eating Disorders, and the American Psychological Association.

Read the full bill text here. 

Watch Congresswoman Manning’s remarks on the bill here.

Original source can be found here.