The Need for Trauma- Informed Mental Health Programs in Schools

Bill H.R. 2913 will help schools apply mental health programs into their curriculum. The goal is to make sure these programs are culturally and linguistically appropriate, trauma- informed, and age appropriate. A mental health program that is funded under this bill is required to help students dealing with trauma and violence.
Adding mental health programs in schools would be a preventative action. This policy, if passed, should improve the well-being of children in public schools. By pushing for schools to be trauma- informed as well as adding mental health programs in schools, children who were abused, dealt with violence, or experienced trauma will be educated on how to take care of their mental health and go about everyday life with the skills taught in these programs.
When children are taught how to cope with their feelings, surroundings, difficult situations, they would be able to succeed. Children who are not given the skills to cope with trauma in their lives are more likely to end up with a mental illness later in life. Mental health is just as important as physical health. A child with a mental illness who is not taught appropriate coping strategies may use negative coping mechanisms, such as substance abuse, violence, and negative self-talk. Children who develop positive coping skills through this program will be able to share these skills with their families and communities. Standard 1.01, Commitment to Clients, of the NASW Code of ethics states that a social worker must promote the well-being of clients (NASW, 2917). Adding mental health programs in schools will promote the well-being of students and make a positive change towards mental wellness. Children are the future, so we need to give them the best opportunity to succeed. Signing this petition will put this bill one step closer to becoming a law.