Children around the world are facing life's biggest battles.
They've been orphaned. They've witnessed unspeakable violence. They've even seen death.
And yet, less than a penny of each dollar spent on global health funding goes toward mental health support.
It's not enough — and kids need more.
Send a message: We must pass the MINDS Act so they can heal and thrive.
Dear Legislator,
452 million kids are growing up in conflict zones. They've been orphaned. They've witnessed unspeakable violence. They've even seen death. 1 billion children worldwide lack access to education, health, housing, nutrition, sanitation or water.
Considering these tragic figures, it's no surprise that 1 in 6 of the world's children are living with mental health disorders. But it's truly shocking that less than 1% of global health funding has ever been designated to address it.
It's just not enough. Without strong support, kids can't possibly cope with grief, anxiety and depression on top of hunger, war and displacement.
That's why passing the bi-partisan Mental Health in International Development and Humanitarian Settings (MINDS) Act is so crucial. It's the first-ever piece of legislation to promote psychosocial support as a key component of U.S. foreign assistance, laying the groundwork for a global mental health strategy.
If passed, the MINDS Act would codify the position of USAID Coordinator for Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS), require the Department of State and USAID to integrate MHPSS programming across regional bureaus and missions and require the Executive Branch to brief Congress on barriers to MHPSS programming — all at no extra cost.
This is our chance to invest in mental health like never before, breaking cycles of poverty and building resilience. As an advocate for children, I urge you to co-sponsor the MINDS Act (H.R. 3988/S.2105) to help kids heal and thrive. I look forward to hearing from you.
[Your message here]
Sincerely,
[Your name here]
