Mental health is more important than anything.
Most people find it difficult to address mental health issues nowadays, even parents. That is why Governor Andrew Cuomo decided to take a different approach to this topic by signing a new legislation that would give high importance to mental health education.
Therefore, mental health will receive the same attention as other relevant topics such as substance abuse, alcohol, and tobacco. According to Glenn Liebman, MHA-NYS CEO, children and teenagers need be well-informed about anything related to mental health.
This way, they will find out how to reduce the risks and recognize the symptoms in case they already suffer from any disorder. Mental health has been regarded as a taboo subject for a long time, so little is known about it.
Many people across the United States suffer from a diagnosable condition, but they are either afraid or too proud to admit it. Also, some people are unaware of the related symptoms and think they can handle it without receiving proper medical care.
Many schools in New York already welcomed the new legislation and implemented educational programs to inform pupils and students about mental and physical health as well. In addition, schools in Orleans County address mental health issues efficiently, while they also have highly qualified professionals ready to provide young people the attention they need.
According to Mark O’Brien, Mental Health Director in Orleans County, this initiative has certainly paid off because many teachers, administrators, and school psychologist joined their efforts in supporting these children, who understood that the local community cares a lot about their well-being.
These joint efforts have also tackled the mental disorders caused by depression and eating disorders from bullying. Nancy Balbick, Wyoming MHS director, says that education has a broad array of targets because it doesn’t just help teenagers how to get out of depression, but also to understand the reason they are overwhelmed by these negative feelings.
When someone recognizes the symptoms, it becomes easier tackle them. However, it is impossible to get out of a bad situation if you don’t know with what you are dealing. Balbick further added that ‘I hope they teach not only ‘This is what your mental health is’ but also ‘This is what mental wellness is.’ In other words, emphasizing wellness is as important as prevention.
Image Source: Pixabay
