Mental Health Chair Urges NYS School Boards To Create A 'Mental Health Safety Net' In Schools

New York State Senator Thomas P. Morahan, Chairman of the Senate’s Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities Committee, announced that he will be urging his colleagues in the State Legislature, as well the state’s local Boards of Education to create a ‘mental health safety net’ by strengthening guidance and counseling services, especially in middle and high schools.

The Mental Health Committee Chairman’s announcement comes on the heels of the recent National Survey on Drug Use and Health which revealed that one in ten teenagers will experience major depression, with fewer than half receiving treatment. Morahan has already contacted Education Commissioner Richard Mills, to urge that every middle and high school classroom teacher receive training, at the beginning of every school year, to be able identify the warning symptoms of clinical depression.

The Senatorhighlighted the commencement of National School Counseling Week (February 6- 10) by stating his concerns on the floor of the Senate. Heurged fellow legislators to contact local school boards to encourage a significant increase vigilance and support for mental health staff development and services in neighborhood schools.

"Today's school counselors are vital members of the education team. Their vigilance and dedication are essential for helping all students in the areas of academic achievement, personal/social development and career development. They also ensure today's students become the productive, well-adjusted adults of tomorrow. This year I want to encourage all educators to become ‘mental health first-responders,’ reporting the signs of teen depression to parents and mental health caregivers," said Morahan.

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