Local Catskill High School Students Advocate for Mental Health Policies at State Level

Catskill High School students, members of the Yellow Ribbon Teen Suicide Prevention Team, recently participated in the Mental Health Association of New York State (MHANYS) Advocacy Day. The event took place at the state capital on March 13. The students marched, rallied, and met with Assemblymember Chris Tague. They discussed the need for policies that improve mental health understanding on college campuses and support overall health equality.

The students also pushed for the recognition of mental health-related school absences and suicide prevention measures in schools. They advocated for more funding for the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. These actions are important for addressing mental health issues among young people, especially during the current pandemic.

In Albany, the students learned about legislation and attended presentations by several officials. These included Mental Health Commissioner Anne Marie Sullivan, State Education Department Commissioner Betty A. Rosa, and Assembly Mental Hygiene Chair Aileen Gunther. Senate Mental Hygiene Chair Samra Brouk and Assembly Higher Education Chair Patricia Fahy also spoke to the students.

Patrick Wildes, the Assistant Secretary to the Governor for Human Services & Mental Hygiene, was another speaker. The students' attendance at such events aligns with the Yellow Ribbon's ongoing commitment to mental health advocacy.

The participation of Catskill High School students in the MHANYS Advocacy Day shows their commitment to influencing mental health policies. Their actions highlight the value of youth involvement in shaping policies that affect their lives and health. The Catskill community supports their students' efforts and hopes their advocacy will bring about positive changes in state mental health policies.

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