Gov. Cathy Hochul on Tuesday began expanding school-based mental health programs in New York state. This is part of Hochul’s pledge during his State of the State address to improve the youth mental health services provided.
“We help young people deal with these challenges right now, whether it’s depression, grief, body image issues, whatever they’re facing right now. If we can solve it now and help them develop coping skills, they will lead the world in “better lives, healthier lives,” Hochul said.
Hochul announced $20 million in start-up funding for school-based clinics. Applications will be submitted on a rolling basis, he said, making it easier for schools interested in opening satellite clinics to access state funding.
New school satellite clinics may be automatically eligible to receive $25,000 to get the clinic up and running. Schools with more than half of their students from economically disadvantaged families and deemed to be in high need could receive an additional $20,000 in funding.
The expansion includes the creation of the Governor’s Youth Mental Health Advisory Committee, which is comprised of high school and middle school students with an interest in or personal experience with mental health issues. Applications for the advisory board are currently being accepted.
After last year’s Youth Mental Health Listening Tour, this board became a priority. Young New Yorkers told Hochul they wanted their voices to be heard.
Hochul pointed out that social media is a major factor in the rise in mental health problems among youth, and cited the “Children’s Safety Act,” known as the SAFE Act, which regulates potentially addictive social media feeds. He is also advocating for an Act to Stop the Exploitation of Addictive Feeds. Minors without parental consent.
