NYAPRS Note: In collaboration with the Mental Health Association of NYS (MHANYS), we urge you to call your Assembly member today to advocate for the Mental Health Education Bill. This bill offers options for educators in public schools to address mental health as an integral aspect of health and wellness. The bill was moved out of Senate Committee last week and now needs support to pass through the Assembly. The bill number is A.7727-A; contact your legislator in the Assembly today and urge them to support the bill!
Recommendation: Support S.5359-A (Flanagan)/A.7727-A (Nolan). This Legislation would amend Section 804 of Chapter 17 of New York State Education Law to more aptly reflect our present day understanding of health and mental health.
Background: The proposed amendment allows maximum flexibility in the way each school or school district addresses the change in the statute. The change in the law merely clarifies that mental health is an integral part of health. Therefore, this legislation is not a new “mandate”. Rather, it is a long overdue acknowledgement by the New York State Legislature and Governor that mental health is as integral to one’s overall well-being as is physical health, and as such, should be reflected in the law guiding health instruction.
By ensuring that young people are educated about mental health, we increase the likelihood that they will be able to more effectively recognize signs in themselves and others, including family members, and get the right help. Further, as we begin to teach the facts about mental health and openly discuss the issues from a health perspective, we will begin to lessen the stigma surrounding psychiatric diagnoses. Young people and their families would feel more comfortable seeking help, academic performance for all students may be enhanced, and ultimately lives could be saved.
Find the contact information for your assemblyperson here: http://assembly.state.ny.us/mem/?sh=search
Suggested Script When Calling:
“Hello my name is _________. I live in Assembly member _________’s district and I’m calling to urge the Assemblyperson to support A.7727-A. This bill is important because it would clarify for educators that it’s ok for them to teach students about mental health as part of the health curriculum and it would help students recognize signs of mental health problems and how and where to get help when needed.”
Take Action Today to Support Mental Health Education in our Schools!