We, the undersigned, are united because there is a mental health crisis in America. Depression, anxiety, and suicidality among young people are rampant. The situation is so troubling that the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, and the Children’s Hospital Association jointly declared a national children’s mental health emergency late last year. Despite the mental health challenges students are experiencing, few are receiving the services they need— and it's taking a toll on children, families, and educators alike. School mental health services offer a real solution to this crisis by meeting students where they are —in schools— and giving them the skills to build resilience, as well as providing real help for children with greater challenges. School mental health services reduce barriers to mental health care and give children the opportunity to thrive.

The Hopeful Futures Campaign released a national report that scores every state in the country on policies that support school mental health. You can see the report card at hopefulfutures.us. The report also includes a range of policy solutions that states have taken to make a difference, such as supporting more school mental health professionals, providing teacher training, and adopting mental health education for students.

Every young person should be able to get the help they need to be safe, happy, and healthy. We urge legislators across the country to take action today by helping pass legislation that expands mental health care in our schools. Providing school mental health services is one of the most important things we can do to ensure a healthy and hopeful future for our youth.

This can’t wait.