The U.S. is experiencing a youth mental health crisis, and suicide remains a leading cause of death for young people. Although suicide was the 2nd leading cause of death for college-aged people in the U.S. in 2021, fewer than 1 in 4 Americans are familiar with the 988 Lifeline which could save countless lives.  What is more unfortunate is that ONLY sixteen (16) states require colleges and universities to publicize mental health resources on student ID cards and websites. The Improving Mental Health Access for Students Act will educate more college students across the country and put a much needed spotlight on what we can do to help our youth in crisis.

This Act will:

• Help Students learn about the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline

• Include 988 information on student ID cards to make it easy to know who to call in a crisis

• Reduce stigma in schools by publishing suicide prevention and mental health resources on school websites so students know where to reach out for help.

Making it easy for students to find and share the 988 Lifeline number will improve access to live-saving critical resources and destigmatize reaching out for help.